Jamesville-DeWitt has an uncompromising commitment to excellence in preparing students to succeed, to respect themselves and others, and to practice life-long learning. That mission is directly supported by J-D High School’s new Financial Algebra course.
“Although we touch on certain financial applications throughout our existing courses, there has never been an emphasis on financial literacy as a whole. Much of what students will learn in this course will apply to situations they will encounter as adults. This includes things like budgeting, taxes and credit cards,” shared Math Department Chair Sue Techman. “It will also include some more complicated topics like taking out different types of loans or planning for retirement.”
The course will be offered to juniors and seniors for the 2025-26 school year. It can be taken on its own or in addition to another math class like Statistics or Precalculus. The only math prerequisite is Algebra 1. There are no financial prerequisites.
“This course is designed for students who may have struggled with math and for students who have had success in math but may not yet know how to do their taxes or determine the type of car insurance that is most appropriate for them,” explained Math Teacher Charles Clinton. “Upon leaving this class, students will have an idea of just how important it is to be mathematically literate.”
The course will be organized by financial units. In a banking unit, students would learn math related to different aspects of banking. They would see the immediate application of math concepts which can increase information retention. They will also complete projects involving the community.
“We want students to interact with people,” explained Clinton. “In a unit on automobile ownership, students could go to a car dealership to research the different options available and the hidden expenses associated with the purchase and ownership of an automobile.”
Members of the Math Department including Clinton, Techman, and Erin Sullivan worked with J-D High School Principal Dr. Gregory Lawson to develop the course with changing graduation requirements in mind.
“Financial literacy is the one component families, teachers and students ask for. We are excited because this course will provide students with a rigorous experience with skills they will use throughout their lives,” shared Lawson.
If students would like to learn more about the course, they are encouraged to reach out to the Counseling Center.