When it comes to preparing kids for adulthood, Pennsylvania is taking financial literacy seriously. A recent article from Central Penn Business Journal spotlights the state’s growing momentum to make personal finance education a mandatory part of high school curricula. With bipartisan support and backing from both educators and parents, the push is not just a policy trend – it reflects a broader cultural shift.
In the article, Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity emphasizes that learning how to budget, save, and understand credit is just as critical as learning history or science. Many students graduate without ever being taught the basics of managing money, which can leave them unprepared for student loans, credit cards, or even their first paycheck.
At UNest, we believe that financial education should start early – and extend beyond the classroom. While schools can offer essential lessons, parents play a powerful role in reinforcing these skills at home. One way to do that is through a UTMA custodial account. These accounts help kids understand the value of investing, delayed gratification, and setting long-term goals. Watching their savings grow – even in small amounts – can be a formative experience.
As more states consider similar education mandates, the momentum is clear. Financial literacy is no longer optional. It’s a core life skill, and families that support it early can help their children develop lifelong confidence and independence with money.
