In a remarkable display of financial acumen, two freshmen from Tupper Lake High School earned recognition for their impressive performance in a statewide stock trading competition. The event, which saw participation from 896 teams across upstate New York, challenged students to manage virtual investments over several months. Damian McClain and Taylor Dewyea not only placed ninth overall but also demonstrated valuable lessons in financial literacy under the guidance of teacher Trevor Sussey.

High Schoolers Navigate Market Volatility with Skill

During a period marked by significant market fluctuations, a group of high school students in Tupper Lake embraced an innovative approach to learning about finance. Under the mentorship of Trevor Sussey, the class embarked on a journey into the complexities of the stock market after expressing keen interest in this often-overlooked subject. This led to participation in "The Stock Market Game," an educational simulation that allowed students to trade stocks, bonds, and mutual funds using $100,000 in virtual funds.

The competition spanned from February 24 to May 9, during which time the U.S. markets experienced notable declines, including a steep 16.7% drop in the S&P 500 index. Despite these challenges, McClain and Dewyea achieved a nearly 15.7% return on their portfolio, finishing in the top 1% among competitors. Their strategy focused on holding established "blue chip" stocks, avoiding excessive trading and short selling tactics adopted by other teams. At the district’s school board meeting, the pair was honored for their outstanding achievement.

Sussey emphasized the importance of experiential learning, allowing students to navigate both gains and losses independently. He noted that while losing money might seem discouraging, it provided crucial insights into risk management and responsible investing practices. By engaging directly with real-time market data, students gained firsthand experience with the emotional aspects of financial decision-making.

From a broader perspective, Sussey highlighted the growing accessibility of investment platforms and warned against falling prey to quick-profit schemes without adequate research. He encouraged students to stay informed through news analysis and expert opinions, fostering habits essential for long-term financial success.

This initiative proved to be more than just a game; it served as a platform for developing critical thinking skills and instilling prudent financial habits early in life.

As retail trading becomes increasingly popular, initiatives like "The Stock Market Game" offer invaluable opportunities for young people to explore the world of finance safely. Through trial and error, students learn resilience, adaptability, and the significance of thoughtful planning when managing resources—lessons that extend far beyond classroom walls.

For educators and parents alike, this story underscores the power of interactive education in preparing youth for real-world challenges. Encouraging curiosity about financial matters equips them with tools necessary to navigate an increasingly complex economic landscape confidently.