In this impactful conversation with Principal Travis Brown, we explore innovative ways to teach financial literacy to parents so they can empower their children with the tools for financial success. The traditional message of “go to college and get a good job” no longer guarantees financial freedom in today’s economy. We discuss the need to shift the narrative, especially in communities affected by consumerism and luxury rap culture, and emphasize that financial freedom—not a good job—is the ultimate goal. One critical element of this conversation is the idea of a “hidden curriculum.” Financial literacy skills and money mindsets are often inherited from parents, but many students, particularly in communities of color, don’t encounter real financial challenges until they are applying for college. This can be too late to develop the habits and knowledge needed for long-term financial success. By engaging parents, we can equip them to have these important conversations early, ensuring their kids are better prepared. To make learning about money more engaging, we suggest gamifying education. Imagine creating interactive group activities where kids and their parents can work together to solve financial challenges, incorporating friendly competition through games. Movie nights could be another way to engage families, featuring films that spark discussions about money, saving, and investing. These types of hands-on, communal experiences make learning about financial literacy fun and relevant for all ages. The conversation also highlighted the power of social learning and how students can lead financial discussions at home. Financial organizations won’t solve these problems for us—it’s up to the community to educate itself.
