Jennifer Cordero

Cordero's winning "Classroom, Inc. (CI)" program introduces the basic world of business to fifth- graders at Klondike Elementary. In the "office-like" classroom, students will have jobs, earn wages and receive promotions similar to that of an actual business. Students will spend their wages on classroom privileges, save money, and pay fines for inappropriate conduct, all in an effort to promote fiscal responsibility and financial accountability. By participating in the CI project, students will learn the fundamentals of personal finance (maintaining checking and savings accounts), how to fill out a job application, write a resume, and interview for a job. The classroom, which will include a technology center with computers, will contain cooperative learning areas where small groups of students can collaborate on projects. Individual space will also be available to focus on assignments. Cordero thinks the benefits of CI far surpass academic achievement. It opens up a new world of professionalism and responsibility in an environment where few real-world examples currently exist for students. She resides in Memphis.