Scripps Ranch High School Claims Victory in CEE's 2025 National Personal Finance Challenge

Over the recent weekend, Scripps Ranch High School from San Diego, California, achieved remarkable success by winning the 2025 National Personal Finance Challenge (NPFC), an event hosted by the Council for Economic Education (CEE). This competition attracted over thirty teams from 28 states, all vying for the title of the nation's most financially knowledgeable high school students.

A Test of Financial Knowledge

Competitors were challenged with a variety of questions covering essential personal finance topics such as saving strategies, investment options, stock market dynamics, and effective credit management. A particularly intriguing question posed during the finals was, "What credit card transaction incurs interest immediately, starting from day one until it's fully paid off?" such queries led to intense discussions and highlighted the depth of financial literacy in today's youths.

Hosted at the Voya Financial headquarters in Atlanta, the 14th annual NPFC showcased the skills and knowledge students have acquired throughout their education. The event not only served as a competition, but also as a platform to celebrate life skills crucial for the future of these young adults.

Bridging Gaps in Financial Literacy

Christopher Caltabiano, the Interim CEO of CEE, expressed pride in the participants, remarking that their efforts represent a commitment to mastering the skills necessary for navigating life's financial challenges. In a society where financial literacy is increasingly critical, these students demonstrated their preparedness to face real-world financial issues with competence and accountability.

Heather Lavallee, CEO of Voya Financial and a member of the CEE board, commended the remarkable knowledge displayed by the students. She emphasized the importance of financial literacy as a foundational element of the company's values and its dedication to educating students across the nation.

Highlights of the Competition

This year saw nearly 18,000 high school students participating at the school level before advancing to the national finals. The CEE emphasizes the need for financial education, with a significant number of students from Title I schools participating in the Access Zone program. Notably, the competition highlighted six core areas of personal finance knowledge, aligning with research indicating that financial literacy correlates directly with better financial decision-making.

The national finals concluded with Scripps Ranch High School crowned the champions, with team members Robert Schumann, Ryan Langsam Williams, Ben Wolff, and Caleb Lee, alongside their coach Ian Rasmuson, taking home the top honors. Each member received a cash prize of $2,000, reflecting the high stakes and significant rewards associated with financial literacy education.

Other finalists included Mount Hebron High School, which took second place, and Madeira High School in third, showcasing a robust field of competitors deeply engaged in financial learning and education. The recognition extended to various student initiatives aimed at enhancing knowledge of finances, beginning early in high school and continuing into broader educational contexts.

Moving Forward in Financial Education

As parents and educators prepare for the next year, they are encouraged to visit the competition's website to consider implementing the NPFC at their schools, fostering an environment where financial literacy becomes an integral part of the educational curriculum. The CEE's commitment to promoting financial education at the high school level is paramount, as current statistics indicate that 14 states do not mandate personal finance coursework in school curricula.

As we move forward, it is crucial to recognize the evidence linking financial literacy to effective management of personal finances, including better preparation for retirement, improved financial resilience, reduced debt levels, and informed decisions regarding student loans. The successes of these young scholars reinforce the importance of comprehensive financial education in empowering future generations, enabling them to make informed choices for themselves and their communities.

For further details and insights into the competition, resources for educators and parents, and information on financial education initiatives, visit www.councilforeconed.org.