A group of juniors at Ridgeview High School has secured consecutive state championships in the Central State Personal Finance Challenge, showcasing their expertise in financial literacy and decision-making.
The students’ skills are put to the test during the school’s annual reality fair, where participants are assigned mock careers and salaries, then tasked with navigating monthly financial decisions similar to those faced by adults. According to personal finance teacher Karen Malone, the hands-on event has a lasting impact on students.
“It really opens their eyes,” Malone said. “They get to understand what their parents go through when making financial choices and managing household expenses.”
For student Brianna Fields, the challenge carries significant personal meaning.
“It’s great to be recognized for something besides sports,” Fields said. “I want people to know I have more to offer than what they see on the field or the court. I’m intelligent, too.”
Team member Marco Alvarez emphasized the broader implications of their achievements.
“We’re proving that people’s assumptions about us are wrong,” Alvarez said. “We’re capable of even more than what people expect.”
A financial literacy bill currently under consideration in Central State would require all high school students to complete a semester-long personal finance course before graduating.
Another team member, Taylor Owens, noted that the group’s accomplishments are inspiring their peers.
“It’s exciting to see more students stepping out of their comfort zones and trying new things,” Owens said. “A lot of students who are typically quiet or don’t join clubs are now motivated because they see our team going to nationals back-to-back.”
Competing at a national level has also given the Ridgeview team a chance to serve as role models, particularly for underrepresented students.
“We’ve traveled to places like Chicago and Dallas, and we hope to compete out of state again this year,” said teammate Isabella Morales. “Being able to set an example, especially for Latina girls who might not see many role models in this field, means a lot to me.”
The team is now preparing for this year’s State Personal Finance Challenge, which is scheduled for next month.
