JEFF ALLEN
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Meet Jeff Allen, who is leading Fresno Unified’ s new initiative to offer personal finance elective classes in high schools. The classes have been an instant hit with students and Fresno Unified is seen as a statewide leader in the development of personal finance curriculum and classes. Allen was a teacher at Bullard, his alma mater, for 20 years prior to this new assignment.
Outside of work, Allen enjoys hiking, fly fishing, gardening, biking and exploring new places with his wife and three daughters. He’ s also an“ habitual tinkerer.”
How did you get involved in the district’ s personal finance initiative?
The district’ s personal finance initiative began with a grant from Next Gen Personal Finance. The three-year grant aims to increase financial literacy across Fresno Unified through the creation and implementation of a personal finance course, professional development for teachers and building community connections to provide additional opportunities for our students. A colleague brought the opportunity to my attention, and though I wrestled with the idea of leaving the classroom( even for a short time), I realized the potential impact of this work on our students and community. For years, I’ d discussed the importance of financial literacy with colleagues and reflected on how my own children lacked exposure to these essential concepts.
How will students benefit from personal finance classes?
Personal finance education has the power to transform lives. It equips students with the tools to build generational wealth, prepare for the future and avoid predatory financial practices. By learning skills like budgeting, paying for college and managing credit, students can sidestep many of the financial pitfalls I’ ve seen affect friends, family and even myself.
Beyond these immediate skills, students also learn how to make informed decisions, fostering a sense of independence and confidence in navigating their financial futures. Personal finance classes empower students to dream bigger by equipping them with the knowledge to set and achieve realistic financial goals. They also encourage civic responsibility, as financially literate individuals are more likely to contribute positively to their communities. Ultimately, this education gives students a foundation for lifelong financial well-being, helping to break cycles of poverty and create opportunities for upward mobility.
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