Written by: Chris O’Shea

More kids are learning about financial principles in school.

Kids are finally learning about money in school. Financial literacy matters a lot. And thankfully, kids are getting taught this essential concept.

Financial Literacy Programs

The shift in financial literacy is due to state legislatures finally pushing bills that mandate financial education courses.

Quick Financial Education Stats

In 2018, just 16 percent of graduating high schoolers had taken a financial education course.

• There are now eight states with the money-education mandate, and four more have passed bills that will push the courses through in the next couple of years.
• That means by next year, about 32 percent of graduating high schoolers will have taken a financial education course.
• The same report estimated that by 2030, that percentage should hit 100 percent. 

Smart Money Decisions Earlier

The increase in financial education is encouraging because it can help young people make smart money decisions as they get older. In one report, young people who received financial education courses were less likely to carry debt and less likely to be delinquent in payments as adults. 

Do One Thing: Encourage your kids to take financial literacy classes seriously. They can be extremely helpful.

At First Heritage, we are committed to helping the youth in our community get started on their financial education journey. Throughout the school year, our Financial Champions Representatives visit schools to help with job readiness lessons such as career days, introducing financial literary lessons and so much more. Contact Christy Parsons for more information or to schedule a classroom visit at 607.936.4667 x299 or email cparsons@fhfcu.org.