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We are excited to announce a significant milestone for Pathway Financial Education: our new partnership with KIPP Legacy High School. Starting this semester, we will bring comprehensive personal finance education to their junior class, helping prepare these students for a successful financial future.
“Financial literacy is the foundation for long-term success,” said LaTasha Jacobs, Executive Director at Pathway Financial Education. “Through this partnership with KIPP Legacy High School, we’re excited to help students build confidence and independence when it comes to managing their finances.”
The Importance of Financial Literacy
According to the TIAA Institute-GFLEC Personal Finance Index (P-Fin Index), financial literacy in the US has hovered around 50% for eight consecutive years, with a 2% drop in the past two years. This statistic highlights a pressing issue: without a strong foundation in financial knowledge, many individuals face difficulties managing debt, planning for emergencies, and achieving long-term financial stability.
Despite its significant influence on both personal and professional success, financial education remains underemphasized in many school curriculums. For many young people, essential concepts like budgeting, saving, and investing are mysteries until they encounter real-world consequences.
That’s where Pathway comes in. Through this partnership, we are taking steps to bridge that gap by equipping students with practical tools and knowledge to build financial confidence that will last a lifetime.
Developing a Curriculum That Resonates
A key component of this initiative is creating a curriculum that speaks directly to today’s students. Recently, Katie Murphy, a Harvard freshman and former Shawnee Mission East student, worked with Pathway to develop engaging educational content tailored to high school learners. From interactive games to relatable scenarios, the program is designed to make financial concepts both accessible and engaging for young minds.
“I am excited about what it can hopefully teach them because financial literacy is super important for all young people,” said Murphy.
In addition, our curriculum aligns with the Missouri Department of Secondary Education’s standards. This ensures that students receive not only a well-rounded education but also a structured framework that meets state requirements and expectations.
Why This Partnership Matters
Partnering with KIPP Legacy High School represents a shared commitment to equipping students with tools for financial success. Personal finance education is more than numbers; it’s about giving students the skills to take control of their futures. By mastering financial planning, students can build confidence, make informed choices, and unlock opportunities.
“This is about more than just financial knowledge,” said Angelique Cheatem, Program Manager at Pathway Financial Education. “It’s about empowerment. We’re giving students the tools they need to make informed decisions and build brighter futures.”
At Pathway Financial Education, we are driven by a mission to create opportunities and remove barriers to financial knowledge. Our partnership with KIPP Legacy High School is an important step in that journey. We’re honored to play a role in shaping the futures of young leaders who will go on to make informed, impactful decisions.
We believe this is just the beginning of a larger movement toward ensuring every student has access to life-changing financial education.