Real World Dollars, Real World Lessons: Nature Coast Investment Practicum Reaches $1 Million Milestone

In a time when financial literacy is more crucial than ever, Citrus County’s schools are at the forefront of an educational revolution—one that gives high school students the rare opportunity to manage real investment portfolios typically reserved for college classrooms.

Now in its sixth year, the Nature Coast Investment Practicum (NCIP) at Citrus High School has become a flagship example of public-private collaboration, blending rigorous academics with hands-on experience in real-world finance. At its 2025 annual celebration, the program proudly announced a major milestone: the student-managed Manatee Investment Fund (MIF) surpassed $1 million in total value, a remarkable leap from its original $25,000 seed funding just six years ago.

Hands-On Learning with Real-World Impact

The NCIP immerses students in the complexities of investment management, tasking them with overseeing the MIF under strict professional guidelines. Students analyze financial markets, evaluate companies, and make strategic buy/sell decisions under the supervision of the Manatee Fund Advisory Council. Guided by financial advisors and their instructor, Russell Wilson, participants apply both quantitative analysis—like price-to-earnings ratios—and qualitative evaluation of industry trends.

This year’s student team began managing the fund in August 2024 with a starting valuation of $376,970.58. Despite market volatility, strategic investments and donations helped the fund grow to $932,543.88 by February 2025, eventually crossing the $1 million mark with additional contributions. The MIL strategic investments, excluding the donation, grew by 18.64% during the management period—surpassing even the S&P 500 for the same timeframe.

“This program provides hands-on experience in managing investment accounts, equipping participants with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions,” said Shaunda Burdette, Executive Director of the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF). “Through real-world application and expert mentorship, students gain invaluable insights into market analysis and financial responsibility.”

More Than Money: Scholarships and Career Skills

The MIF isn’t just about growing dollars—it’s about growing futures. A portion of the fund’s earnings is allocated to student scholarships, awarded based on academic performance, participation, and reflective essays. In 2025, six students were awarded scholarships totaling $18,000. Since its inception, the fund has disbursed more than $100,000 in scholarships, supporting graduates pursuing careers in fields such as business, engineering, and healthcare.

Along the way, students master key financial and professional skills—from accounting and financial statement analysis to teamwork, public speaking, and portfolio presentation.

“They learn to track transactions, prepare reports, and interpret financial data—skills that are transferable to any profession,” said Dr. Scott Hebert, Superintendent of Citrus County Schools. He also announced plans to expand the NCIP to Crystal River and Lecanto High Schools, stating, “This practicum is about more than stock picks—it’s about empowering students with lifelong financial literacy.”

Community Partnerships Fuel the Program

The NCIP’s success is built on strong community support. A major boost came in January 2025, when a $606,385 donation accelerated the fund’s growth. Local financial advisor Scott Lee, a co-instructor and one of the program’s original architects, highlighted the importance of mentorship.

“We’re not just teaching kids about stocks. We’re teaching them how to think critically, analyze risk, and understand long-term financial planning,” Lee said.

Partnerships with organizations like Edward Jones and the CCEF help connect students with professionals and provide real-world experiences, including trips to Raymond James Financial headquarters. An advisory board—comprised of local attorneys, financial advisors, and educators—ensures the program meets industry standards while providing networking opportunities for students.

Student Testimonials: Confidence for the Future

For the students, the experience is transformational.

“I learned business strategies that will help me run my own company one day,” said Jesenia Cueto, a senior who focused on the tech sector.

Victor Otero, an aspiring chef, reflected, “This class taught me how to manage money—a skill I’ll use when I start my nonprofit to fight food insecurity.”

Alumni of the program have gone on to attend top universities like UF and FSU, entering college with a firm grasp of personal finance and investment strategies.

“This class taught me to go beyond the numbers and ask deeper questions,” said Madyson Brown, a 2024 scholarship recipient. “Now I feel confident making informed financial decisions.”

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Legacy

With plans underway to expand the program to other high schools in the county, Dr. Hebert emphasized the district’s commitment.

“Every student in Citrus County deserves this kind of opportunity,” he said. “It’s not just about financial gains—it’s about creating financially literate citizens who are ready to lead.”

What began as a bold experiment has blossomed into a model for experiential education, proving that high school students can navigate financial markets—and use that knowledge to invest in their futures and their community.

Acknowledgements

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many partners and supporters who make the Nature Coast Investment Practicum possible: the Citrus County Education Foundation, Edward Jones, and the dedicated administrators of Citrus High School. Special thanks go to mentors Scott Lee, Carol Dumas, Kaitlin Kirby, and Dana Sternberg for their unwavering guidance and support this year. We also want to recognize Russell Wilson, NCIP’s lead instructor, whose passion and commitment continue to inspire and empower the next generation of financially savvy leaders.

The Nature Coast Investment Practicum proves what’s possible when education meets opportunity. With hands-on experience and strong community support, Citrus County is empowering students to take charge of their futures. Together, we’re building financially savvy leaders—one stock pick at a time.

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