Wednesday Wealth Notes

A Teacher‑Friendly Newsletter from Teacher Talks Money

 Welcome, New Members!

We’re thrilled you’re here. Each Wednesday you’ll find a quick read designed to fit between grading papers and grabbing that third cup of coffee, because teachers deserve clear, actionable money guidance, not jargon.

Your First Step in Financial Planning: Know Your Numbers

Before we talk budgets, investing, or debt‑payoff strategies, you need a snapshot of where you stand today. Think of it as taking attendance for your finances.

1. List Your Assets
   Savings, checking, retirement accounts (403(b)/IRA), cash value life insurance, home equity, etc.

2. List Your Liabilities
   Student loans, credit cards, car loan, mortgage, “I’ll‑pay‑you‑back‑next‑payday” IOUs.

3. Calculate Your Net Worth
   Assets – Liabilities = Net Worth
   (Don’t sweat the number—positive or negative—it’s just your starting line.)

4. Identify One SMART Goal
   Ex: “Build a $1,000 emergency fund by October 1.”
   A clear goal turns that snapshot into a roadmap.

Teacher Tip: Set a 30‑minute timer after the school day and knock this out while your classroom is quiet. Use our free Google Sheet template or the worksheet on page 5 of your Vision Planner.

Action Step of the Week

Block 30 minutes on your calendar to complete steps 1‑4 above. Hit reply to this email (or tag us in the TTM Community) with:
I" took attendance on my money!"
We’ll send you a high‑five GIF, and maybe a surprise sticker pack.

Member Shout‑Out

“After doing my net‑worth snapshot, I realized my 403(b) was bigger than I thought, it motivated me to open a Roth IRA!”
— Jamie D., 6th‑grade ELA, Ohio

Want to be featured? Share your win with us!

Coming Up

• Mon, May 26 - TTM Educators Circle Lunch

• Wed, June 4 - Newsletter #2: The 50/30/20 rule vs. Zero‑Based Budgeting

• All month: Book club reading The Psychology of Money 

Big news, we just launched the Teacher Talks Money Facebook Group, and you're invited!

This group was built for educators like you, whether you’re navigating your first paycheck or planning your dream retirement. It’s a space where money talk is honest, practical, and completely judgment-free.

Inside the group, you'll get:

• Tips for budgeting on a teacher’s salary

• The latest updates on student loan forgiveness (2025 and beyond)

• Smart strategies for saving, investing, and building wealth

• Retirement planning support made for educators

• Ideas for side hustles and income growth

• Plus: Free resources, weekly financial tips, and live Q&As with a financial coach!

Join now and take control of your finances, on your terms.
Join the Facebook Group Here

And if you're ready to dive deeper into your financial goals, don't forget to grab your free consultation here:
https://teachertalksmoney.com

We can’t wait to see you!

Until next Wednesday, teach boldly, spend wisely, and remember: your money story is still being written.

With gratitude,
Rose Mendonca
Founder, Teacher Talks Money