Financial Literacy in High Schools

Economic education is often reserved for college or adult life—but why? Studies show that students who learn about budgeting, saving, and banking during their teenage years are more likely to make informed financial choices later on. And yet, financial literacy remains a minor topic in most school curricula.

In recent years, pilot programs have emerged across the country to bring money skills into classrooms. These range from interactive budgeting simulations to mock investment challenges—though none involve real currency. Schools partnering with community banks like CoreFirst have begun offering workshops on account management and long-term savings strategies.

The goal is not to turn teens into financial experts, but to introduce fundamental ideas. What is interest? Why does credit matter? How do taxes work? These questions are foundational, especially in a world where students often hold part-time jobs, pay for apps, and make online purchases from a young age.

Educators report mixed results. While engagement is high, standardized tests rarely measure financial competency, making it a "soft subject" in traditional rankings. Still, school districts that persist in these efforts often find higher levels of student confidence and reduced reliance on predatory lending in young adulthood.

There is also an equity component. Students from low-income families stand to gain the most from early exposure to practical finance. That’s why institutions like CoreFirst have extended their outreach programs to under-resourced schools, providing not only materials but also trained facilitators.

A financially literate generation is an empowered one. Integrating economic education early can be a key step toward breaking cycles of debt and dependence, and encouraging a more informed and independent society.