The Case for Prioritizing F.L.E.C. Education: Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Career Readiness
By Vince Shorb, NFEC CEO
In today’s rapidly changing world, education must evolve to meet students’ practical needs, equipping them with the skills to navigate a complex global economy. Yet despite this necessity, our current education system remains stuck in a model that prioritizes traditional subjects over practical life skills. Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Career Readiness (F.L.E.C.) subjects address these gaps, providing students with the tools to build stable, independent lives. It is time we make F.L.E.C. education a cornerstone of school curricula across the United States.
The Importance of F.L.E.C. Subjects
Imagine graduating from high school, stepping into adulthood, and being completely unprepared to manage your money, start a business, or even write a professional resume. For millions of young people, this situation isn’t hypothetical – it’s reality. F.L.E.C. subjects teach skills that students will use throughout their lives, such as how to create a budget, understand credit, navigate career pathways, and develop entrepreneurial mindsets. These skills are not just helpful, they are essential to success in the modern world.
The Gap in Current Education Mandates
Despite their importance, F.L.E.C. subjects are notably absent from most school curricula. Currently:
This lack of emphasis on F.L.E.C. education leaves students unprepared to face the challenges of adulthood. As a result, young people often graduate without the skills they need to achieve financial stability or pursue meaningful careers. The consequences are evident: rising debt levels, stagnant wages, and a growing skills gap in the workforce.

Learning from STEM’s Success
The success of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education provides a blueprint for how we can elevate F.L.E.C. subjects. Over the past decade, STEM has benefited from significant investment, strong branding, and advocacy from influential organizations. As a result, STEM education is now a core part of most school curricula, and students are encouraged to pursue careers in those fields.
While STEM plays a crucial role in driving innovation, it is worth noting that STEM-related careers account for only 6.4% of the job market, with modest growth projections. In contrast, F.L.E.C. subjects have universal applicability. Every student, regardless of their career path, benefits from understanding how to manage money, explore entrepreneurial opportunities, and prepare for the workforce. By modeling the advocacy strategies used to promote STEM, we can ensure that F.L.E.C. education receives the attention and resources it deserves.
“of STEM-related in Job Market”
Why F.L.E.C. Education Is Universally Relevant
One of the most compelling arguments for F.L.E.C. education is its universal relevance. While not every student will become a scientist, engineer, or mathematician, every student will need to manage their finances, navigate career opportunities, and adapt to a changing economy. These are life skills that transcend industries, demographics, and geographic locations.
Consider the following scenarios:
These examples illustrate how F.L.E.C. education can empower students to take control of their futures, regardless of their chosen paths.
Advocating for Policy Change
To make F.L.E.C. education a national priority, we must advocate for policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels. Key steps include:
Mandating Comprehensive Financial Literacy Education
States should require standalone financial literacy courses for graduation, with a minimum number of instructional hours to ensure that students gain meaningful knowledge.
Integrating Entrepreneurship into Curricula
Schools should offer entrepreneurship education as a core subject, encouraging students to think creatively and develop business skills.
Expanding Career Readiness Programs
Career readiness should be a fundamental part of every student’s education, with opportunities for internships, mentorships, and hands-on learning.
Providing Resources and Training for Educators
Teachers need access to high-quality resources and professional development to effectively deliver F.L.E.C. content.
Building Partnerships with Businesses and Communities
Collaboration with local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations can enhance F.L.E.C. programs and provide students with real-world experiences.

The Role of Parents and Communities
Parents and communities also play a crucial role in advancing F.L.E.C. education. By advocating for these subjects at school board meetings, supporting local programs, and teaching financial literacy at home, families can help ensure that young people are prepared for life beyond the classroom. Community organizations, too, can contribute by offering workshops, mentorship opportunities, and funding for F.L.E.C. initiatives.
A Vision for the Future
Imagine a future where every student graduates from high school equipped with the knowledge and skills to achieve financial independence, pursue entrepreneurial ventures, and excel in their careers. This is not an unattainable dream – it is a realistic goal that can be achieved through intentional investment in F.L.E.C. education.
By prioritizing Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Career Readiness, we can create a generation of young people who are not only prepared to navigate life’s challenges but also empowered to seize opportunities and drive positive change in their communities. The time to act is now. Let’s make F.L.E.C. education a national priority and give our students the tools they need to build a better future.

Sign the Petition to Encourage FLEC Subjects in Schools
NFEC’s United for Financial Literacy Campaign Champions F.L.E.C. Education Nationwide
Become a Part of the United for Financial Literacy Advocacy Committee
The United for Financial Literacy Advocacy Committee was established to support educators teaching financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness, while also highlighting the critical importance of these subjects for the financial health of individuals and communities nationwide.
Alliance members urge educators, policymakers, parents, and citizens to prioritize F.L.E.C. education as an essential part of school curricula, ensuring that students from elementary to high school are prepared for financial and professional success.
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