Everfi - Financial Education
by Lorine Parks
“The dangers of not teaching personal finance to kids,” was the theme of Michelle Decker, senior Southern California representative of EverFi.
Why does financial literacy matter to high school seniors? It may be the only chance for many to understand savings, credit scores, renting versus owning, taxes and insurance, and consumer protection.
Considering auto loans? Home ownership? What are some credit card scams and how to recognize them? “Preparing students and consumers to make sound financial decisions, credit card bills, debt, saving, and financing higher education, may not be top of mind for most young people,” Michelle said, “but the financial decisions they make today will have a long-term impact on their lives.”
EverFi is a concern that prepares learners for next generation challenges, such as STEM readiness, career leadership, health and wellness, and financial education. As Michelle pointed out, poor financial awareness jeopardizes Americans’ ability to succeed in today’s complex and competitive environments.
This is the first year that seniors at Downey High have been offered a course with subjects such as, balance your checking account; how to read a credit card statement; consumer fraud and scams; the Stock Market and the NASDAQ.
This course, with the questions it raises, is available online to all seniors, which means they can study the modules whenever it is convenient, not just in a structured classroom setting.
Currently 410 students at Downey High have spent 268 hours in a pilot program learning 358 earning modules prepared for them by Michelle’s company, an organization that brings a fresh approach to evolving and enhancing education opportunity.
Sponsors for EverFi include many private sector companies and forward-leaning foundations. For more information and questions, contact everfi.com.