Bo Tefu | California Black Media
Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last week 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 — a move advocates say could have significant impact in communities across San Francisco and the Bay Area.
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 2927, signed by Newsom in 2024. The course will be available beginning in the 2027–28 school year and required for students graduating in 2030–31 and beyond.
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“When women have the opportunity to build wealth, families are stronger, communities are healthier, and our economy .grows,” she said.
