Implement a Financial Literacy Curriculum in all Minnesota High Schools.

 

All high schools within Minnesota school districts will be required to have a curriculum for students in years 10-12

about Financial Literacy to better prepare the students for life after they graduate.

 

Financial literacy is a fundamental life skill, yet many students nationwide graduate without the knowledge of how to

complete things such as taxes, maintain a budget, or being able to plan for further education and future life expenses.

As a result, newly graduated and financially independent students can be faced with financial struggles and overwhelming

student debt.

Currently, Minnesota does not have a required financial literacy course for high school students. While some districts

do give voluntary courses, the accessibility rate across the state is inconsistent, leaving students unprepared for

upcoming adult responsibilities. This bill would ensure that every high school student in the state of Minnesota

receives quality financial education before graduation.

 

Financial Literacy- The knowledge and skills to manage financial resources efficiently and effectively.

MDE- Minnesota Department of Education

 

A portion of the MDE’s pre-existing budget could be reprioritized to develop the new curriculum, train teachers on the

topic, and gain any necessary resources. This avoids any unnecessary “new” spending by reprioritizing already existing

schooling funds and could be tied to the also pre-existing Career and College Success (CCS) budget in the MDE.

 

Annual Compliance Report - Schools would be required to submit annual compliance reports to the MDE, demonstrating that

they are actually completing the required curriculum. This would contain a copy of the used curriculum, the number of

students who completed the course, and documentation of how the curriculum is taught, along with any assessments.

Failure to complete an Annual Compliance Report can lead to random spot audits in the coming years, during which a

member of the MDE will be sent to monitor the class and ensure it is being taught as required by this bill.

 

This bill would go into effect in July of 2026.