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Youth

H&R Block Invests in Teen Financial Literacy with $1.4 Million in Classroom Grants and Student Scholarships

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

H&R Block's H&R Block Budget Challenge awarded $1.4 million in classroom grants and student scholarships to promote teen financial literacy. The online simulation allows students to practice managing expenses and paying bills in a safe environment. Kathy Collins, H&R Block's chief marketing officer, stated, "Our goal is to arm teens with the personal finance skills and confidence they need to succeed when they are out on their own."

As part of the program, 17 classrooms received a total of $112,500 in grants, and 67 students each received $20,000 college scholarships. Notably, Guntersville High School in Alabama demonstrated exceptional mastery of the Challenge, securing a total of $227,500 in prizes. Teacher Sherry Brown and her students were incredibly proud of their progress, citing the program's ability to spark financial understanding and responsibility in her students.

The H&R Block Budget Challenge addresses the need for more financial education, as only 7% of high school students and fewer than 30% of adults report being offered financial education at school or college. H&R Block has made a total investment of $3 million in teen financial education for the 2014-2015 school year. Three classroom simulations remain in this year's program, and teachers can still register for the following two simulations:

  • Jan. 30 - April 2 (Teacher registration ends Jan. 23)
  • Feb. 13 - April 16 (Teacher registration ends Feb. 6)

For more information or to register, visit hrbds.org.

Key Takeaways:

  • H&R Block's H&R Block Budget Challenge awarded $1.4 million in classroom grants and student scholarships.
  • 17 classrooms received a total of $112,500 in grants.
  • 67 students from Guntersville High School received $20,000 college scholarships, totaling $1.34 million.
  • The H&R Block Budget Challenge addresses the need for more financial education, as only 7% of high school students and fewer than 30% of adults report being offered financial education at school or college.
  • H&R Block has made a total investment of $3 million in teen financial education for the 2014-2015 school year.
  • Three classroom simulations remain in this year's program.
  • Teachers can still register for the following two simulations:

* Jan. 30 - April 2 (Teacher registration ends Jan. 23)

* Feb. 13 - April 16 (Teacher registration ends Feb. 6)

  • For more information or to register, visit hrbds.org.

Statistics:

  • $1.4 million awarded in classroom grants and student scholarships.
  • 17 classrooms received a total of $112,500 in grants.
  • 67 students from Guntersville High School received $20,000 college scholarships, totaling $1.34 million.
  • Only 7% of high school students and fewer than 30% of adults report being offered financial education at school or college.
  • H&R Block's total investment in teen financial education for the 2014-2015 school year is $3 million.

Sources:

  • H&R Block
  • Kathy Collins, H&R Block's chief marketing officer
  • Guntersville High School
  • Our Lady of the Elms High School
  • Madeira High School
  • Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Royal Oak, Mich.
  • Houston, Texas
  • Wellington, Texas
  • George Washington University School of Business
  • U.S. Financial Capability

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