Financial Literacy Course

Cresskill High School has recently partnered with Bergen Community College (BCC) for the delivery of the state-mandated 2.5-credit Financial Literacy course. This course is a graduation requirement for all New Jersey high school students and plays a crucial role in preparing them for responsible personal financial management. Students will select a semester option to take the course during their freshman year. This is an online course that is graded as Pass/Fail and does not factor into the student's GPA.

Course Description: Financial Literacy provides students with the essential financial literacy skills to make informed financial decisions and build a strong financial foundation. Topics include personal financial planning, money management, financial services, consumer credit, purchasing strategies, insurance, and investing. Students will engage in real-world applications, simulations, and critical thinking exercises to develop practical financial skills.

  • College Credit Opportunity: Students who complete the BCC course will earn one (1) college credit. This credit is applicable toward BCC degree programs and may be transferable to other New Jersey institutions based on articulation agreements.

  • Curriculum Alignment: The course is designed to meet both New Jersey Department of Education Financial Literacy Standards and college-level expectations, ensuring rigorous academic preparation.

  • Enhanced Student Support

    • Virtual office hours with faculty

    • Academic coaching sessions

    • Access to financial literacy mentors

    • Technical support and accessibility services (e.g., translated materials, accommodations for students with disabilities)

  • Increased Local Partnership Value: Bergen Community College is a well-established, highly regarded local institution, and this partnership reinforces our district’s commitment to collaborating with community-based higher education partners.

  • Facilitated Engagement by Cresskill Staff: Our counseling staff remain actively involved by supporting enrollment logistics, monitoring student progress, and coordinating academic guidance in collaboration with BCC.

Students/families are allowed an initial attempt at the course at no cost, however, they are responsible for the $50 enrollment fee if needing to retake the course.

If you have any questions, please email Mr. Dan Apice at dapice@cresskillnj.net.