Empowering Our Future Through Financial Literacy: Continuing the Journey
Over the past several weeks, I’ve been actively engaging with community members as part of my ongoing campaign for a seat on the school board. During this time, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my deep commitment to financial literacy – a passion that has driven my work for over 17 years and continues to fuel my vision for a stronger, more equitable education system.
I have been actively involved in multiple organizations supporting this initiative, including:
A Lifelong Commitment to Financial Education: My journey in financial literacy began nearly two decades ago with SecureFutures, where I first discovered that understanding money goes far beyond dollars and cents – it’s about empowering individuals to make informed decisions. For the past 10 years, I have had the honor of instructing in the MoneyPath program, teaching financial literacy at both the elementary and high school levels. Working directly with young people, I’ve witnessed how practical lessons in budgeting, saving, and responsible credit use can transform lives and open doors to future opportunities.
Building Bridges with the Wisconsin Financial Literacy Foundation: In 2015, I co-founded the Wisconsin Financial Literacy Foundation – an initiative dedicated to promoting innovative financial education programs across our state. This endeavor has allowed me to collaborate with educators, community leaders, and policymakers to ensure that every individual, no matter where they live, has the confidence and knowledge to manage their finances effectively.
National Advocacy and Leadership: My commitment to financial literacy extends beyond our local community. On the national stage, I have promoted financial education during my tenure as president of the CFA Society Milwaukee and as policy advocacy chair. In these roles, I coordinated with industry leaders and engaged in policy discussions to drive meaningful changes that bolster financial literacy nationwide – efforts that reinforce my belief in the power of education to transform lives.
Teaching Across Diverse Communities: Throughout my journey, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a wide range of educational settings. I have taught in inner-city schools as well as in suburban schools, including specific experiences at McKinley, Tosa East, Tosa West, Carmen High School, and the Milwaukee Academy of Arts and Sciences, among many others. These varied environments – spanning both urban and suburban communities – have underscored the universal need for strong financial skills. It’s not merely about balancing a checkbook; it’s about understanding the economic forces that shape our lives and empowering every student to thrive.
“Of everything I’ve done professionally, the most rewarding has been the time I’ve spent in the classroom, teaching financial literacy in diverse communities for over 17 years. Financial literacy is a game-changer for equity and opportunity, and I’m committed to ensuring all students, regardless of background, have the tools they need to succeed."
Beyond my volunteer work, my knowledge and passion for financial literacy will also benefit the board and the Wauwatosa community:
The Role of Financial Literacy in Community Leadership: In my book, I explore how a solid foundation in financial literacy contributes to thoughtful decision-making and community engagement. While the challenges facing our school boards are multifaceted, I believe that a better understanding of financial principles can enhance our collective ability to address them. By embedding financial education in our schools from an early age, we nurture informed citizens who are prepared to contribute to the wellbeing of our community in myriad ways.
A Vision for the Future: My vision for our school board is rooted in the belief that robust financial education is a powerful tool for advancing equity and social mobility. When students understand the basics of finance, they acquire a skill set that levels the playing field – preparing them for higher education, entrepreneurship, and active civic participation. This isn’t just about economics; it’s about creating opportunities and fostering social justice.
Continuing the Conversation
After weeks of vibrant discussions and community engagement, I am more convinced than ever that our students deserve a school board that values practical education and prepares them for real-world challenges. I remain committed to ensuring that financial literacy is not an afterthought but a foundational element of our schools’ curricula.
I invite you to join me in this ongoing journey toward a brighter future. Together, we can empower every student to learn, grow, and succeed – both in the classroom and beyond.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
Christopher K. Merker, CFA, Ph.D.
Candidate for Wauwatosa School Board, Seat #7
