AUGUSTA, Maine — Legislators in Augusta are currently debating a bill that would make Maine the 20th state to require high schools to teach personal finance as a stand-alone course.
This bill aims to equip students with critical financial knowledge and prepare them to manage their finances responsibly throughout their lives.
Some high schools in the state already offer personal finance as an elective, but this bill seeks to make it a core component of the education system.
“As educators, we believe that kids are really listening to the information we provide,” said Kelly Horton, a personal finance teacher at Falmouth High School.
Sen. Matti Daughtry, the driving force behind the bill, emphasized the importance of students learning important life lessons about financial literacy.
Daughtry proposed the bill last year with the goal of making financial literacy classes available in every high school in Maine.
“I have heard from students who are struggling with decisions about how to balance going to university and their financial lives. Students who are independent at a young age and really need this to advocate for themselves. We also heard from people,” said Sen. . Daughtry said.
New England states such as New Hampshire and Rhode Island already have similar requirements.
Thursday's work session will play a key role in determining whether the bill moves closer to becoming law in Maine.
“I think this is one of the things you need to do when you're a member of society, when you get a job, when you rent an apartment, when you open your first checking account,” said Senator Daughtry. He emphasized its practicality in preparing students for financial education. various aspects of adult life.
Supporters of the bill, including Mrs. Horton, hope personal finance courses will soon become standard classes for all students.
Sen. Daughtry expressed optimism that if all goes well, the bill could move to the full Senate for consideration within the next week.
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