Mission Bend Branch Library, located at 8421 Addicks Clodine Rd, Houston, TX 77083, is hosting a free Teen Financial Literacy Series aimed at equipping high school students with essential money management skills. The program, led by Janelle Johnson from the Fort Bend County Extension Program, is part of a four-part series covering budgeting, credit management, credit cards, and insurance.

Why Financial Literacy Matters for Teens

Financial literacy is a crucial life skill that helps young individuals navigate real-world financial responsibilities. Studies show that teenagers who develop strong financial habits early on are better equipped to make informed decisions about saving, spending, borrowing, and investing as they transition into adulthood. Without financial education, young people may struggle with issues such as credit card debt, poor budgeting, and a lack of savings, which can have long-term consequences on their financial stability.

By attending this series, teens will learn how to create a budget, build credit responsibly, and understand the importance of insurance, giving them the tools they need to make sound financial decisions in the future.

Program Details and Schedule

The Teen Financial Literacy Series is open to students in grades 9-12 and takes place at 5:00 PM on the first Monday of each month, with the exception of January’s session. Registration is required and can be completed online, in person, or by calling 832-471-5908. 

January 13 – Budgeting 101

Students learned how to create a budget by tracking income and expenses, prioritizing needs over wants, and setting savings goals. (This session has passed.)

February 3 – Credit Management

Participants will explore the fundamentals of credit cards, loans, and credit scores, learning how to use credit wisely and avoid excessive debt.

• Register here: fortbend.lib.tx.us/event/ya-teen-financial-literacy-series-2

March 3 – Introduction to Credit Cards

This session takes a deeper dive into credit cards, covering how they work, common pitfalls, and smart strategies for responsible usage.

April 7 – Insurance Basics

Students will receive an overview of different types of insurance—including health, auto, and renters’—and how insurance plays a vital role in financial security.

A Free Resource for Future Financial Success

Your local library, part of the Fort Bend County Libraries system, is committed to providing valuable educational opportunities, and this series serves as a free, accessible way for teens to gain financial knowledge that will benefit them for years to come. Parents are encouraged to register their teens to take advantage of this opportunity to build a strong financial foundation.

For more details, visit Mission Bend Branch Library in person or check out upcoming events at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.