Financial Literacy to Become a Core Course in Florida High Schools
By Space Coast Daily // April 1, 2022
The lawmakers in the state of Florida have been working on a bill that would make a course in financial literacy a core requirement for graduation in 2022, and beyond. In the United States, it’s predicted that around 50% of adults are financially anxious or financially illiterate. Now, the Florida bill is seeking to challenge these statistics head-on. This bill would affect high schools in Brevard County, Palm Beach, and Broward County.
Why Financial Literacy Should Be Taught In Schools
The past few years have been exceptionally tough on the American economy, particularly in Florida, as many small businesses shut down and employees lost their jobs due to unforeseen circumstances. This has caused a growing awareness of the importance of financial literacy for the average American citizen, and schools and the government in the state have taken notice.
Financial literacy is a fundamental skill that helps people manage their money, save effectively, and avoid the depths of poverty. For example, students leaving high school in the United States are often required to take out student loans to fund their tertiary education. However, this type of loan will affect their credit rating. Learning about options like Sky Blue Credit Repair in a financial literacy course could end up saving students thousands of dollars, and help them repay their debt faster. If students don’t know about these types of options, they may face financial obstacles they’re ill equipped to address.
The Bottom Line
The House Prek-12 subcommittee recently approved the bill unanimously, which means that a mandatory financial literacy course will be added to the Florida high school curriculum from the year 2022/23 onwards. Along with the course in financial literacy, a course in money management is being added to every curriculum in the state. Completion of both courses will give students 7 ½ credits towards their graduation, with the financial literacy course a prerequisite for graduation.
Will More Of America Follow?
This is a positive step forward by the state of Florida following a turbulent two years for the American economy. Making sure that the next generation is secure in their financial wellbeing will protect them from uncertain events and set them up for a better future. There’s hope that Florida is just the start of a new wave of financial education that will be implemented at all schools in the US.
