Two Virginia Schools Shine in Personal Finance Education

Two high schools in Southwest Virginia are getting national praise for their Personal Finance programs.

Narrows High School ranked No7 in the country. Grayson County High School ranked No17. The rankings came from WISE a group that helps schools teach money skills.

Grayson County High School reached the top 20 after many students did very well on their tests. The school had a passing rate of more than 90 percent.

Teacher Chad Wright said students learn through real life activities. They use a program that shows what it is like to buy a house, buy a car and manage money.

School leaders said this helps students learn skills they will use every day. Students learn how to save money, spend wisely and plan for the future.

One former student, Andrew Schaffner said the class helped him after graduation. He now plays minor league baseball. He shared that the lessons helped him understand paychecks, rent and money choices.

Virginia has required high school students to take a personal finance class since 2011. School leaders say the program gives young people a strong start in life.

The success of Narrows High School and Grayson County High School shows how important money education can be for students.