Resources Available for Financial Literacy Educators

High School Financial Planning Program and Iowa Jump$tart help teachers reach teens

May 2, 2017, 7:52 am | Mary M. Weinand, Laura Sternweis

AMES, Iowa – Responsible financial decision-making is a habit that develops through lifelong learning. But it’s a good idea for that learning to be underway by the time teens begin high school, says Mary M. Weinand, a human sciences specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

MoneyHigh School Financial Planning Program

“Financially literacy is an important 21st century survival skill. The High School Financial Planning Program is a free, ready-to-use, financial literacy curriculum specifically focused on basic personal finance skills that are relevant to the lives of teens in grades 8-12. Whether or not you have experience teaching personal finance, you will find the instructional materials easy to use and adaptable for your situation,” said Weinand, who specializes in family finance.

ISU Extension and Outreach human sciences specialists help educators access and implement the curriculum.

The High School Financial Planning Program covers six topics: planning, borrowing, earning capability, investing, financial services and insurance. The curriculum includes student guides, lesson plans, PowerPoint presentations, assessments and a growing collection of online resources and learning activities.

“You can choose to use some or all of the lessons and activities as you decide what works for your students and timeframe," Weinand said. "All of these materials are available at no cost to schools and nonprofit organizations that teach youth about personal finance."

The instructional materials are adaptable to the classroom setting, home schooling or independent learning, Weinand added.

Iowa Jump$tart

Another source for financial education material is the Iowa Jump$tart Coalition. The coalition’s goal is that all Iowans will be financially literate and equipped to achieve lifetime financial goals upon graduation from high school.

“Visit the Iowa Jump$tart website at www.iowajumpstart.org for educational resources and information on upcoming conferences,” Weinand said.

Financial literacy for all Iowans

“Financial literacy is important for all Iowans and ISU Extension and Outreach is a 99 -county campus. Stop by your county extension office to learn about local programs near you. Visit us online to find finance programs for families, volunteers and professionals, plus a link to the Extension Store with publications about spending plans, investing, using credit, stretching your dollar, buying a house, planning for retirement and more,” Weinand said.
 

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