How Career-Connected Learning and Financial Literacy Elevate Young People as Leaders in the Economy

Currently, only 35 states require high school students to complete a personal finance course to graduate. The National Financial Literacy Test, which surveys youth aged 15 to 18 annually, provides insights on ten critical factors of money management — and the most recent results show a persistent need for greater financial comprehension among this population. 

Using career-connected learning to introduce financial literacy at an early age can help learners build a foundation for future financial health, equipping them with the skills needed to manage money effectively throughout their lives.

Catalyze grantees RevX and WeThrive are championing financial independence and economic mobility by preparing the next generation with financial education and empowering students to make well-informed decisions about their finances.

Through Catalyze grant funding, RevX’s Micro Apprenticeship program gives students as young as third grade the opportunity to participate in projects that expose them to career pathways beyond traditional norms — also allowing them to earn money for their work. “Many families have yet to open a bank account for their children at this age, which we support them in doing,” said Jennifer Charlot, co-founder of RevX. 

By enabling young people to earn money through their apprenticeship, the program begins financial literacy education with a very real experience. Through this, they teach learners the importance of money management, sparking conversations about value systems and what kind of careers are the best fits for them.

Charlot recognizes that financial literacy remains low and unevenly distributed, particularly among youth who live in under-resourced communities and those without college degrees, necessitating targeted and earlier educational efforts. “Families explicitly requested that we teach financial literacy. Looking across their community, they felt many people were behind in knowing what to do with their money,” she said.  

WeThrive similarly teaches financial literacy by encouraging entrepreneurship and providing funding for student-led companies that address needs in their community. 

“When I speak about our work, I'm proud to say that all youth launch a real venture that makes them feel like members of society. Entrepreneurship sparks a business mindset and teaches that money management and financial literacy early on are essential,” said Danielle Espiritu, chief of learning success at WeThrive. 

Its programs target different age groups, from middle school to young adults, and pair financial education with real-life application, helping students cultivate money management and entrepreneurial skills. 

“Even if a learner doesn't want to own a business, our program helps them with problem-solving, decision-making and research ability,” said Espiritu. “Non-traditional career exposure is vital across industries that may get less attention in traditional classroom settings.” 

Espiritu wants learners to realize they can be leaders in the economy. Businesses created by students generate revenue and help solve problems that affect them directly. WeThrive further supports its learners with resources and mentorship, developing their confidence and preparing them for future success. “The younger they start, the more they can learn,” said Espritu. 

The current economic climate underscores the urgency of prioritizing financial literacy for young people through career-focused learning to ensure equity in their financial stability. 

“An early focus on financial education can equip young people with productive habits and a solid understanding of fundamental financial principles,” said Michelle Cheang, director of Catalyze. “Effective programs like WeThrive and RevX show how educators, industry representatives and financial service professionals can collaborate to prepare young people for both long-term financial and career success.”

Catalyze grantees are showing how financial literacy education can foster economic leadership in young learners when successfully embedded into student-centered programs that leverage engaging experiences throughout coursework, career shadowing, apprenticeships and jobs.