We are writing this petition to express our deep concerns regarding the lack of financial literacy education provided to high school students. Financial literacy is a essential life skill that empowers individuals to make informed financial decisions, manage their personal finances, and navigate the complex world of money effectively.

The current education system inadequately prepares students to handle real-life financial challenges. A significant percentage of high school graduates lack a fundamental understanding of budgeting, banking, taxes, loans, investments, and other essential financial concepts. Consequently, they often encounter difficulties in managing their finances, leading to long-term financial struggles and an increased burden on society. Teaching financial literacy is a imperative issue because financial literacy builds the knowledge and skills for making financial decisions later on in life. 

Evidently, this lack of knowledge can lead to poor credit scores, limited retirement savings, and inadequate investment opportunities. Did you know that Americans owe over $800 billion in credit card debt as of Q1 2022? Also, over 70% of American teens lack confidence in their personal finance skills. Lacking financial literacy can also impact students of color at higher rates. Surprisingly, nearly three-fourths of students experience high financial needs, which can lead to increased debt and difficulty accumulating wealth. 

Signing this petition is a meaningful step towards creating a future where every student is equipped with the necessary financial knowledge and skills to thrive. Did you know there is already a bill written by Senator Leroy Comrie and NY Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson? This bill, S486OA/A2298A, aims to require high schools to “provide a course in financial literacy and requires students to complete such course as a condition of graduation.” With your help we can effectively make a change and teach this young generation that financial literacy matters. 

Thank you for signing this petition and providing a new change for our generation!