Washington Council for Economic and Financial Education

As we wrap up 2024, we're grateful for the incredible #Washington educators who have helped thousands of students build stronger financial futures this year. Your dedication creates lasting impact that extends far beyond the classroom. To our partners, supporters, and the business leaders who've shared their real-world expertise with students: thank you for helping us expand access to high-quality financial education across Washington State. Looking ahead to 2025, we remain committed to our mission of ensuring every student has the opportunity to develop essential economic and financial literacy skills. Together, we're investing in the next generation of informed decision-makers, prudent savers, and confident consumers. Wishing our entire Washington Council for Economic and Financial Education community a joyful holiday season and prosperous New Year! #FinancialLiteracy #EconomicEducation #WashingtonState #Education

Picture a recent graduate confidently negotiating their first salary, understanding their benefits package, and already planning their retirement contributions. This isn't just a dream - it's what happens when students receive quality financial education. Here in #Washington, remarkable teachers are creating these success stories every day. Through hands-on learning and real-world simulations, students aren't just memorizing terms - they're developing lifelong money management skills. Washington Council for Economic and Financial Education is proud to support these educators with: - Free classroom resources and curriculum guides - Professional development workshops - Connection to industry experts - Community partnerships with local financial institutions Want to join our network of educators who are transforming financial literacy in Washington? Send us a message today to learn how we can support your classroom. #WashingtonEducation #FinancialLiteracy #TeacherResources #EconEd

Teachers often ask us: 'When will students use these financial skills in real life?' The answer is simple - every single day. From their first paycheck to their retirement planning, our students will make thousands of financial decisions. Yet many enter adulthood without understanding basic concepts like budgeting, investing, or managing debt. That's why Washington Council for Economic and Financial Education partners with educators to bring real-world financial skills into classrooms. When students understand money management, they're better equipped to: Make informed career choices Avoid predatory lending Build emergency savings Plan for their future Ready to strengthen financial education in your classroom? Connect with us to access free resources, professional development, and a community of dedicated educators. #FinancialEducation #WashingtonTeachers #StudentSuccess #FinLit

Educators shape students' financial futures every day. Studies show that students who receive financial education are more likely to save, budget effectively, and make informed financial decisions throughout their lives. Yet only 26 states require a personal finance course for high school graduation, and Washington is NOT ONE OF THEM. Every day in our classrooms, we have the opportunity to empower students with essential money management skills they'll use for life - from understanding compound interest to managing credit responsibly. Financial literacy isn't just another subject - it's a critical life skill that can break cycles of poverty and create generational wealth. When we teach financial concepts, we're not just preparing students for tests - we're preparing them for life. Join the Washington Council for Economic and Financial Education in our mission to expand financial education access. Together, we can help ensure every student graduates with the financial knowledge they need to thrive. https://www.wacefe.org/ #FinancialLiteracy #Education #TeachFinance #WashingtonEducation

The Washington Council for Economic Education board just gathered for their annual retreat, and it was a truly inspiring day. Members reconnected on why each of them are deeply committed to bringing economic and financial education to students across #Washington State. Many shared personal stories of how a teacher sparked early interest in financial education, reminding everyone of the powerful role educators play in shaping students' financial futures. These experiences underscore why #WACEFE focuses so intently on supporting teachers—empowering them to equip the next generation with the knowledge to make informed economic and financial choices. Energized by the retreat, the board is looking forward to the year ahead and the meaningful work that awaits! Andrea Moran Christina Prkic Christy Johnson Betty Beier Pam Whalley Tracy Godat Adam Wright Sharon Shewmake Jon Allison Robert de Grouchy

Research Reveals the Three Pillars of Financial Well-Being Key findings show that financial success isn't just about how much you earn - it's about how you think about money. Three critical factors emerged as game-changers: Financial Literacy 📚 Understanding basic financial concepts isn't just academic - it directly impacts your financial health. Those with stronger financial knowledge consistently show better financial outcomes. Mental Budgeting 🧠 Simply keeping track of expenses in your head makes a difference! People who mentally categorize their spending make better financial decisions overall. Self-Control 🎯 The ability to resist impulse purchases and stick to financial plans emerged as a crucial success factor. Most interesting finding? These factors work through improved investment decision-making to enhance overall financial well-being. 💡 The takeaway: Financial success is a skill that can be learned and improved. By focusing on these three areas, we can build better financial futures for ourselves and our students. This is why we're passionate about bringing financial education to every Washington classroom. When we teach these skills early, we set up the next generation for success. #FinancialLiteracy #PersonalFinance #Education #Research #WACEFE #WashingtonEducation

Did you miss our recent Economics of the Election session? Great news - you can now view it online! Link below. https://lnkd.in/gikXnK-2 Today is the day to watch it!

🎃 What's scarier than ghosts and goblins? Not understanding compound interest! This Halloween, we're asking our Washington educators: What financial concepts do your students find most 'frightening'? Share in the comments below - your answers will help us develop future resources to make financial literacy less spooky for students! Common student fears we hear: Taxes 🧟♂️ Credit scores 👻 Investment risks 🦇 Mortgage rates 💀 Let's turn these financial fears into financial confidence! #FinancialLiteracy #WashingtonEducation #TeachingFinance #WACEFE

Last week, Western Washington University and the Washington Council for Economic Education hosted an insightful expert roundtable on the "Economics of the Election," exploring how presidential candidates' policies could reshape America's financial landscape. Our distinguished panel including Adam Wright, Edward Alden, Zoë Plakias, Kate Destler, and Hart Hodges offered compelling analysis on: - Immigration policy impacts on the economy - Housing market implications - Tax policy considerations Thank you to everyone who joined us for this engaging discussion on the politics-economy nexus. #Election2024 #EconomicPolicy #ExpertInsights

Join our expert roundtable on the "Economics of the Election" to uncover how presidential candidates' policies could reshape America's financial landscape. 📅 Date: Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 4:00-5:30pm 📍 Location: Western Washington University, Miller Hall 138 🥛 Light refreshments served from 3:30-4:00pm in Miller Hall Collaborative Space 👉 Sign up now! https://lnkd.in/gHv6W8Et What to expect: - Deep dive into immigration, housing, and tax policies - Expert analysis from top economists and political scientists - Insights on potential economic outcomes Hosted by Western Washington University, this session is for all voters, econ enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the politics-economy nexus. Come hear from experts including Adam Wright, Ted Alden, Zoë Plakias, Kate Destler and Hart Hodges! #Election2024 #EconomicPolicy #ExpertInsights