Closing the Financial Literacy Gap: A Call to Action for America

We are in the middle of Financial Literacy Month and I wanted to take the opportunity to chat about something that’s been on my mind lately: the state of financial education in our country. I’ve seen firsthand the impact that a lack of financial knowledge can have on individuals and families. 

Let’s get real for a moment. High school education is meant to prepare students for the real world, right? Yet, when it comes to personal finance, it feels like we’re leaving our kids high and dry. I mean, think about it. We pour resources into teaching algebra and history, but what about budgeting, investing, and saving for the future? These are skills that every person needs to thrive in today’s world. 

It’s not just me saying this. The Financial Literacy Crisis in America report paints a pretty grim picture. Did you know that a whopping 88% of Americans feel like high school didn’t fully prepare them for handling money? That’s crazy! And it’s no wonder that 3 out of 4 adults say they feel stressed about money. That’s a lot of unnecessary anxiety weighing people down. 

But here’s the kicker: almost everyone agrees that if they had learned more about personal finance in high school, they’d be better off today. Imagine how different things could be if we gave our kids the tools they need to succeed from the start. 

Now, here’s where it gets personal for me. Estate planning isn’t just about drafting legal documents. It’s about securing your legacy and protecting your loved ones, right? Well, guess what? It’s also a crucial part of financial literacy. Knowing how to plan for the future, protect your assets, and ensure your wishes are carried out is essential for financial security.