St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School in Tottenham is excelling at financial literacy by having students participate in the Nippissing Stock Market Challenge.

The Nippissing Stock Market Challenge is a web-based tool that gives students first hand experience with buying and selling stocks- with virtual money, of course.

The stock market challenge mirrors the risks and planning that goes into investing money.

St. Thomas Aquinas has entered the challenge for 8 years in a row and has done exceptionally well every year. Approximately 3,000 students participate province wide.

Two economically wise students at St. Thomas Aquina turned their virtual money into actual money. 2015 first place winner, Jessica M., received a $2,000 tuition credit for Nippissing university, and 2014 second place winner, Kally L., received a $1,000 tuition credit.

Keeping track of expenses, organizing income, and planning ahead are all crucial components to achieving financial success - something many Canadians struggle with. Educating youth is the best way to address the issue and St. Thomas Aquinas has made great strides in enlightening students on the importance of financial literacy.

Written by Tori Senetchko, Student Journalist