CONTRIBUTED TO THE LAFAYETTE SUN
LAFAYETTE — Tucked inside the halls of LaFayette High School, the Business Finance program under Chambers County School District is quietly shaping the future of tomorrow’s workforce. Offering industry-recognized certifications and real-world experiences, this program is quickly becoming a cornerstone of career-readiness for students across the district. The Business Finance program is led by Mrs. Laura Heath, a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the business field, including her prior role as a bookkeeper for the Chambers County School District’s Inspire Academy. While the program is part of Inspire Academy, it is housed on the LaFayette High School campus—similar to how Teacher Education is based there, while programs like Health Science and JROTC operate out of Valley High School. All trade programs under Inspire Academy are designed to serve students from both sides of the county, ensuring every student has equal access to high-quality, skill-based education and training. Students enrolled in the Business Finance program at LaFayette High School gain access to industry-recognized certifications that give them a competitive edge in today’s job market. The program offers credentials in Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), Entrepreneurship and Small Business (ESB), Intuit QuickBooks and specialized certifications in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel. These certifications equip students with essential skills in business operations, financial planning and digital literacy — skills that translate directly into opportunities for internships, scholarship and early employment. This year, two students achieved notable credentialing milestones. Riley Toland, a 10th-grade student at Valley High School, earned her MOS Word certification and still has two more years to pursue additional credentials. Erin Drake, a graduating senior at LaFayette High School, successfully completed certifications in both MOS Word and PowerPoint, leaving high school with a résumé that reflects her commitment to excellence and professional readiness. At the heart of the program is the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), a national student organization that prepares young people to become community-minded business leaders through academic competitions, leadership development and educational programs. FBLA members at LaFayette High take their roles seriously — participating in community outreach, academic challenges and skill-building experiences throughout the school year. This year, students completed an interactive tax simulation through a parent software company, giving them hands-on experience in understanding income, deductions and filing processes. They also attended the annual Business Tournament at Southern Union State Community College in Wadley, where they showcased their knowledge and competed against peers from across the region.
In addition, five dedicated student teams participated in the Stock Market Game, where they learned how to invest in real-time and navigate the highs and lows of the financial world. In celebration of Financial Literacy Month, students visited Farmers & Merchants Bank of LaFayette, receiving an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of each department. Bank representatives offered an informative session on how to properly open and manage a checking account—an essential life skill that builds independence and fiscal responsibility. Community engagement remains a strong pillar of the Business Finance program. Students took part in the Trunk or Treat event at Valley Sportsplex, spreading joy and connecting with families. In response to the devastation of Hurricane Helene, they raised essential items for affected families and later joined forces with the Teacher Education Department for a successful canned food drive — further proof of their commitment to service and leadership. FBLA Week was a highlight of the spring semester, featuring inspiring guest speakers who shared real-world wisdom. Dori Harmon, Bailee Fucci, Bo Colley and Clay Howard addressed students on the importance of insurance, budgeting, economic literacy and entrepreneurship — key topics that resonate with today’s business landscape. The program extends its deepest gratitude to its community sponsors, including Harmon’s Insurance Agency, Kenny Knox Tire Center, Farmers & Merchants Bank of LaFayette and AuburnBank (Auburn branch), whose generous financial donations and financial literacy resources help sustain and grow these valuable student opportunities. “Without professionals who understand accounting, budgeting and finance, businesses simply can’t operate.” It’s a bold statement, but one backed by the skills and drive these students develop daily. The impact of the Business Finance program is evident not only in the classroom, but in the community and workplace as well. Three local companies have already stepped forward to offer internships to students, a testament to the talent and preparation this program cultivates. And as the program grows, so do its aspirations — to see every student graduate not just with a diploma, but with direction, purpose and potential. Interested in supporting or learning more about the Business Finance program? Contact the homeschool of your current student or contact Inspire Academy directly.
