Hannah Le, a high school senior who is turning 18, is faced with the decision of choosing between college acceptance offers from Cornell and the Honors College at the University of Texas in Austin. Despite this important decision, she is also a self-made financial literacy instructor who has taught over 500 elementary school children at 9 different schools. Her curriculum covers various topics such as needs vs. wants, human capital, earning and spending, forms of payment, types of financial accounts, savings, budgeting, income, expenses, and profit.
Hannah’s decision to teach financial literacy to elementary school students stemmed from her own experiences as a first-generation American responsible for guiding her family through the college preparatory journey. Her curiosity and desire to learn about financial basics at a young age led her to sharing her knowledge with her friends and classmates. This eventually snowballed into her decision to teach elementary school children about finances, in order to better prepare them for future financial challenges. Her initiative and dedication have helped thousands of people in her extended community gain a better understanding of money management.
The argument that personal finance should only be taught at home is considered outdated in today’s world. The increasing complexity of financial systems and tools, such as 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, and FAFSA, make it necessary for financial literacy to be included in school curricula at all levels. While parents play an important role in teaching their children about finances, having formal education in personal finance at the elementary, high school, and college levels can ensure that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively.
Hannah’s success in connecting with elementary school students and teaching them about financial literacy highlights the demand and effectiveness of such education at a young age. Her story serves as an inspiration for others to replicate her behavior or join her cause in promoting financial literacy among children. By incorporating required personal finance classes at different education levels, students can be better prepared to manage their finances and make informed decisions about their financial future.
Hannah’s initiative has garnered admiration and support from her community, including her family who are proud of her achievements. As she prepares to embark on her collegiate career, there is anticipation and interest in how she will continue to educate others about financial literacy. The impact of her work has highlighted the importance of early financial education and the need for continued efforts to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the modern financial landscape.
