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Why Does School Not Teach Us About Money?

Why on earth does school not teach us about money? It's like we're thrown into this system that's supposed to prepare us for adulthood, yet we're left in the dark when it comes to one of the most crucial aspects of life – managing our finances.

John Taylor Gatto, a brilliant mind in the realm of education, once peeled back the layers to reveal the true purpose of schools. He believed that schools weren't designed to empower individuals but rather to mold them into obedient workers, primed for the workforce. It's a bleak reality to swallow, but one that resonates deeply with many of us who feel suffocated by the system.

So, circling back to the burning question – why does school not teach us about money? Perhaps because it's not in the interest of the system to empower us with financial literacy. After all, an informed populace might start questioning the status quo.

There's probably more to it than that...

• Lack of Resources: Many schools already struggle with limited resources and funding, leading to prioritization of certain subjects over others. Financial literacy might not be considered a high priority compared to core subjects like math and language arts.
• Traditional Curriculum: Schools often follow a standardized curriculum that focuses on academic subjects rather than practical life skills. Financial education may not fit neatly into this framework, leading to its exclusion from the curriculum.
• Lack of Teacher Training: Teachers may not receive adequate training in financial literacy education, making them ill-equipped to teach the subject effectively. Without proper training and resources, educators may avoid teaching about money altogether.
• Fear of Controversy: Financial education can be a politically sensitive topic, especially when it involves discussions about wealth, inequality, and economic systems. Schools may shy away from teaching about money to avoid controversy or backlash from parents, community members, or governing bodies.
• Institutional Bias: The traditional education system is often designed to maintain the status quo and perpetuate existing power structures. Teaching financial literacy could empower students to question and challenge these systems, which may not align with the interests of those in positions of authority.
• Focus on Standardized Testing: With an increasing emphasis on standardized testing and academic achievement, schools may prioritize subjects that are directly tested, such as math and reading, over subjects like financial literacy that are not typically assessed in standardized exams.
• Cultural Taboos: Money is often considered a taboo subject in many cultures, and discussing it openly in schools may be perceived as inappropriate or uncomfortable. This cultural aversion to talking about money could contribute to its exclusion from the curriculum.
• Prioritization of College Readiness: Schools often prioritize preparing students for college and higher education, which may overshadow the importance of teaching practical life skills like financial literacy. As a result, resources and attention may be directed towards academic subjects deemed essential for college admission.
• Industry Influence: The education system may be influenced by financial institutions and corporations that benefit from a population with limited financial literacy. These entities may have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo and perpetuating consumerism rather than promoting financial education.
• Lack of Accountability: Without standardized guidelines or mandates requiring schools to teach financial literacy, there may be little accountability for including it in the curriculum. As a result, individual schools or districts may overlook the importance of financial education in favor of other priorities.

Posted in: Blog, Commentary, Questions on February 21, 2024 @ 7:32 PM

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