Dr. DeForest Soaries’ Book Talk Part of Newark School’s Ongoing Commitment to Financial Wellness

NEWARK, New Jersey – Monday, June 19, 2024 – Teachers and staff from Philip’s Academy Charter School of Newark took part in a book discussion on Monday with Dr. DeForest “Buster” Soaries, Jr., a nationally-acclaimed financial educator and author of 12 books, including his bestseller “Say Yes to No Debt”, the focus of the talk.

This seminar was the culmination of Philip’s Academy’s ongoing efforts to equip students, families and staff with the tools for personal financial independence. This year the school was also one of the sites associated with Newark First Lady Linda Baraka’s Newark Women Moving Forward Financial Initiative (NWFMI) for female financial empowerment.

“We are committed to bringing resources to our Philip’s staff and students that help them succeed both in the classroom and in life. We thank Dr. Soaries for his partnership with our school and for his work to empower educators and their families to achieve their own financial freedom,” said Yasmeen Sampson, Principal of Philip’s Academy Charter School.

“No matter how much you’ve learned about financial freedom to date, you’ll learn more when you teach others. I applaud Philip’s Academy for their work to share this knowledge with more working families and educators. It shows how deeply invested they are in the success of their entire school community,” said Dr. Soaries.

Philip’s was a host site for Newark Women Moving Forward’s commitment to help get 1,000 Newark residents debt-free. A school staff member and small business owner whose child also attends the school led a 12-week program on personal finances, cash management and small business development for families and staff. Over half of participants in the program have now founded a side business.

“I am so grateful to the leadership at Philip’s Academy for their commitment to our well-being and creating opportunities for personal growth. I’ve learned so much and am looking forward to putting what I’ve learned to work,” said Sharon Alonzo, coding teacher at Philip’s Academy.