Statewide — On March 18, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a new requirement for California high school students to complete a personal finance course, part of a broader effort to expand economic opportunity and address wealth gaps affecting women and girls.
The policy mandates a one-semester financial literacy course for graduation, while a related executive order aims to improve women’s access to capital, savings and investment opportunities across the state.
Together, the moves position financial education as a key tool in preparing students for real-world money decisions and in promoting more equitable participation in California’s economy.
The State Board of Education adopted the curriculum under Assembly Bill (AB) 2927, signed by Newsom in 2024. The course will be available beginning in the 2027–28 school year and required for students graduating in the 2030–31 school year and beyond.
Students will learn practical skills including budgeting, managing debt, understanding credit scores, financing higher education and investing. The curriculum also introduces programs like CalKIDS, which provides state-funded college savings accounts for millions of children.
“Financial literacy is a life skill,” Newsom said. “We’re making sure every California student graduates ready to earn, save, invest, and build wealth — while also expanding access so more women and families can fully participate in our economy.”
Alongside the education requirement, Newsom signed an executive order focused on closing the gender wealth gap by expanding access to financial systems and investment opportunities.
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom said the initiative is designed to strengthen families and communities.
“When women have the opportunity to build wealth, families are stronger, communities are healthier, and our economy grows,” she said.
