A recent article by CNBC highlights how taking just one personal finance class in high school can lead to a lifetime benefit of roughly $100,000. You can read the full CNBC article here.
At Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts, we see how these national findings apply directly to the students and families right here on the SouthCoast — from New Bedford and Fall River to Dartmouth, Fairhaven, and beyond. Financial literacy isn’t just a skill; it’s a foundation for long-term success and prosperity in our community.
The $100,000 Lifetime Advantage of Financial Literacy
According to a 2024 study by Tyton Partners and Next Gen Personal Finance, students who complete just one semester of personal finance can expect an economic benefit of about $100,000 over their lifetime.
Much of this advantage comes from learning early how to:
- Avoid revolving credit card debt
- Build strong credit
- Secure better loan rates for essentials like college, cars, and homes
- Start investing for long-term wealth creation
Here on the SouthCoast, from Somerset to Westport, many families face financial barriers that could be eased with stronger personal finance skills. Our JA Personal Finance programs equip teens with the real-world knowledge they need to make smart financial decisions.
Financial Education Is Gaining Ground Nationwide
Across the United States, 27 states now require high schoolers to take personal finance classes to graduate. While Massachusetts has made strides, there’s still more work to be done — especially in communities like Acushnet, Swansea, and Mattapoisett, where access to specialized education programs can vary.
At JA Southern Massachusetts, we’re proud to support schools in bringing comprehensive financial education to every corner of our region. Want to help? Get involved here.
Financial Literacy as a Civil Right
Experts nationwide, including those quoted in CNBC, believe financial literacy should be viewed as a civil rights issue. At JA, we believe every student in Greater New Bedford, Greater Fall River, and surrounding towns deserves the opportunity to learn how to build financial security.
Through programs like JA Economics for Success, students discover how financial choices affect their futures — from paying for college to owning a home.
Training Tomorrow’s Teachers
Delivering high-quality personal finance education starts with having enough trained teachers. As John Pelletier of Champlain College points out, there’s a shortage of educators ready to teach this “orphan curriculum.”
That’s why JA partners with schools across the SouthCoast to provide structured, engaging programs taught by trained volunteers. If you’re interested in making a difference in communities like Dighton, Seekonk, or Freetown, volunteer with us.
SouthCoast Students Deserve a Strong Start
Research shows that students who receive financial literacy education early have:
- Higher average credit scores
- Lower rates of debt delinquency
- Greater net worth by age 25
- Smarter choices around college funding and loans
Our mission at Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts is to prepare the next generation — from the cities of New Bedford and Fall River to the smaller towns that dot the coast — for a financially successful future.
Explore all of our programs and help us create lasting impact right here at home.
