For the third consecutive time, a Franklin Middle School student has finished first in the state and top five nationally in a financial literacy competition.
Bryce Gray, a 7th grader, took top state honors for middle schools in the SIFMA Foundation’s Stock Market Game essay component – called InvestWrite – and finished fourth nationally.
Gray is the school’s first 7th grader to win the competition; it’s previous two winners were 8th graders.
As has been done for the previous two winners from the school, Gray was surprised with the announcement of his wins in the school’s library, where his friends, family, teachers, school and district administrators were waiting for him.
“I came here today and I was so surprised, I didn’t expect this at all,” he said.
Thousands of students entered the competition from around the country, said Esi Gillo, SIFMA’s coordinator for the game.
Students had to write an essay on investment advice they would give a student who had to save $2,000 in seven years. Gray’s solution involved a mix of mutual funds and Certificates of Deposit.
“He really did his research in putting together a wonderful essay,” Gillo said.
Gray’s prizes included two gift cards, a trophy and a banner which will be hung in the school.
Gillo pointed out that this was the third consecutive win in the game for an FMS student.
“I haven’t gone to the same school successively ever, so this is amazing,” she said.
Gillo credited FMS teacher Deborah Gadek, who brought the program to the school last year, with her students’ successes.
“I honestly had no idea,” Gray said. “I didn’t think I was going to win, because normally writing isn’t my strongest subject.”
Gray’s father, Alex, said his son’s accomplishment was “amazing.”
“My son has always done well, so we’re pleased with that,” he said. “But to do this well in something, for any parent, you just have pride.”
“The fact that the judges are on a state and national level is a testament to Mrs. Gadek’s preparation for all the students in this program,” Gray said.
The younger Gray was also presented with a Township Council commendation from Councilwoman Shanel Robinson (D-At Large), his aunt.