Friday, May 2, 2025 Categories:
Investor Alerts and Advisories

BISMARCK, N.D.  — Reading, writing, arithmetic, and money! May 5th marks the 20th annual, week-long financial literacy middle school tour by The National Theatre for Children (NTC), sponsored by the North Dakota Securities Department (NDSD). Professional actors use theatrical comedy to teach students how to manage money, savings and investing, and credit and debit early on. 

NDSD has sponsored NTC’s annual North Dakota school tour since 2005. This year’s program, called Spend It or Save It, runs from May 5th through May 9th, teaching and entertaining over 1,500 students at ten middle schools located in Williston, Minot, Hazen, Killdeer, Tower City, and Fort Yates. The actors involve students in a series of comedic sketches, teaching them about the following topics: 

•    The difference between needs and wants in relation to money
•    Learn to distinguish the longer impact of credit and the highlights of cash
•    The basics of investing
•    The benefits of developing a savings habit

“Learning how to safely manage and invest money is crucial, and it starts by educating our kids,” says Tim Karsky, North Dakota Securities Commissioner. “With scammers getting savvier every day, North Dakota Securities is working tirelessly to educate all citizens, young and old, by educating all about financial literacy and the importance of ‘Stop and think,’ before making any financial decision. Partnering with NTC is a great way to teach kids about good financial health, setting them up for success later in life.” 

The financial concepts covered in NTC’s Spend It or Save It live shows are reinforced by student playbooks (both print and online versions), teacher guides, e-books, and digital games and activities that align with the financial concepts presented in the performances. These educational materials are provided at no cost to the schools through North Dakota Securities Department’s sponsorship.

For More Information Contact:

North Dakota Securities Department 
Alysia Huck, Investor Education & Outreach Communication Specialist | 701-934-8644 (c)

ahuck@nd.gov