Reads to Students as Part of Statewide Economic Empowerment Tour

NEW BEDFORD, MA — Treasurer Deb Goldberg today continued her statewide economic empowerment tour, reading the book Alexander, Who Used to Be Rich Last Sunday to 2nd graders at the John B. DeValles Elementary School. The book, written by Judith Viorst chronicles a young boy’s struggles to understand money management.

"It's great to be with the 2nd grade students at DeValles Elementary School as they begin their journey to understanding personal finance," said State Treasurer Deb Goldberg. “Our goal is for every student in Massachusetts to understand how the decisions they make today impact their lives in the future.”

“I am pleased to see Treasurer Goldberg visit New Bedford. Financial literacy is a critical skill rarely given the attention it deserves,” said Senator Montigny. “In our increasingly complex society, it is more important than ever to invest in programs that inspire and educate our students to become fiscally responsible adults.”

“Treasurer Goldberg realizes the importance of financial literacy especially in Gateway Cities like New Bedford," said Representative Markey. "I am thrilled she could make time to come down to Devalles Elementary School and educate our children on the importance of making informed and thoughtful financial decisions.”

"The importance of saving money is best taught at a young age, said Representative Strauss. “I’m glad these students are getting an early opportunity to learn about finances and spending wisely, and I hope that this experience is one of many experiences that sets these students up for success financially in the future."

On day one, Treasurer Goldberg created the Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE), led by a deputy treasurer with the deliberate goal of incorporating a range of economic empowerment initiatives, including financial literacy, college affordability and programming to support wage equality.

For more information on the Office of Economic Empowerment visit www.mass.gov/treasury or by following the hashtag #EqualPayMA.

###