Learning about personal finance is a game-changer. While Illinois already mandated a personal finance course as a graduation requirement for high schoolers, many students drop out before completing the course. This is a major problem since it leaves them without the necessary knowledge to make responsible financial decisions, which is one of the fundamental concepts covered in the personal finance course.

To address this issue head-on, we propose that Illinois middle schools should require all students to complete a course in personal finance before they graduate. The knowledge and skills gained from such a course can equip these young minds with the financial literacy necessary for making informed decisions about their future.

Studies show that financial education has positive effects on financial habits and can improve the likelihood of saving and responsible spending (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis). By mandating this course as part of graduation requirements for middle schools throughout Illinois, we are equipping our children with the necessary skills to thrive in the future beyond their academic years.

We urge the Illinois State Board of Education and our Illinois Representatives to consider this proposal seriously. It's time we invest in our children's future by equipping them with essential life skills today. Please sign this petition if you agree that personal finance should be made a mandatory course in Illinois middle schools.