Superintendent Arntzen Applauds Montana Board of Public Education for Recognizing the Importance of Financial Literacy and Civics Education

• Brian O'Leary
• January 18 2023

HELENA – On January 13, 2023 the Montana Board of Public Education (BPE) unanimously supported Superintendent Arntzen’s addition of civics or government and financial literacy or economics to the current graduation requirements for Montana high school students. These graduation requirements are housed in Chapter 55 of Montana’s Administrative Rules. The additions carry the weight of half a unit towards graduation within the existing 20-unit requirement. These flexible requirements are determined at the local level through Math, Social Studies, or Career Technical Education.

“I am grateful that the Board of Public Education recognizes the importance role that financial literacy and civics have in preparing our Montana students for the future,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “Financial literacy classes give our students the tools necessary for personal success beyond the classroom. Civics education prepares our students to be active participants in government as they become the next generation of leaders in our great state and our nation.”

The BPE will vote to adopt the revised Chapter 55: School Accreditation rules during the March 9-10, 2023 meeting. Of the 173 Montana high schools, all but 29 currently offer at least one course that integrates financial literacy.  The 20-unit graduation requirements are:

• 4 units of English language arts;
• 3 units of mathematics;
• 3 units of science;
• 3 units of social studies;
• 2 units of career and technical education;
• 2 units of arts;
• 1 unit of health enhancement;
• 2 units of world languages; and
  • 2 units of electives.

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