What are some things students are learning?
The course begins with students reflecting on their personal experiences and views of money, diving into behavioral economics. From there, they explore topics like banking, investing, credit management, paying for college, career exploration, insurance, taxes, budgeting and consumer skills.
For example, one lesson involves analyzing the factors that go into building a credit score, and then the impact of that credit score on the cost of a loan. Students compare scenarios where individuals with high, medium and low credit scores apply for a used car loan to buy the same vehicle.
What have students’ reactions been so far?
Students’ reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Personal finance quickly became one of the top-ranked electives right from the start. Teachers regularly share stories of high student engagement and curiosity, which I have the pleasure of observing during my classroom visits.
It’ s incredibly rewarding to see students actively participating in discussions and asking thoughtful questions, even if it occasionally throws off the lesson timing— what a great problem to have!
Some students have mentioned bringing these concepts home and engaging their families in meaningful conversations. They’ ve shared stories of helping their parents create a budget for the first time, explaining the importance of credit scores to an older sibling or weighing the pros and cons of leasing versus buying a car. It’ s inspiring to see the ripple effect of financial literacy taking root in their lives.
What role is Fresno Unified’ s personal finance program playing in the statewide efforts to add personal finance classes at high schools?
Fresno Unified is leading the charge in personal finance education in California. In June 2024, AB 2927 was signed into law, requiring every high school to offer a standalone personal finance course by the 2027-28 school year and making it a graduation requirement for the class of 2031.
In just one year, Fresno Unified has expanded its personal finance program from a single high school to 10, now reaching nearly 1,000 students. This significant progress has not gone unnoticed. The California Department of Education recognized the district’ s leadership and commitment by contracting Fresno Unified to draft the state’ s Personal Finance Curriculum Guide. I have the privilege of serving as the primary writer for this guide, which is set to be released in May 2026.
This comprehensive resource will be the first step towards providing districts across California with the tools and strategies needed to successfully implement personal finance courses.
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