LAUSD Division of Adult and Career Education Financial Literacy COAAP
Submitted By: Francisco Narciso
Los Angeles Regional Adult Education Consortium
Website: https://adulted.lausd.org/
Type of Practice: Learner Transition
Program Area(s): ABE / ASE, ESL / EL Civics / Citizenship
Region: Los Angeles Basin
Consortia Involved: Los Angeles Regional Adult Education Consortium
The Program of Practice
The problem of practice was identified through EL Civics Student Surveys, which consistently revealed significant gaps in financial literacy among immigrant adult learners. Many students lacked experience with U.S. banking institutions, struggled to understand financial documents, and were unable to manage personal finances confidently. These challenges stem from language barriers and unfamiliarity with financial systems, preventing full economic participation and long-term stability. Pre-program assessments confirmed these findings, showing over 70% of learners had minimal or no exposure to formal banking prior to enrollment, emphasizing a widespread need for structured, accessible financial education integrated into language instruction.
The Response
The LA Unified School District's Division of Adult and Career Education (DACE) Financial Literacy COAAP directly addresses these challenges with an integrated instructional approach. Students receive targeted English instruction focused on financial terminology, engage in hands-on simulations of everyday financial tasks, and develop personal budgets and SMART financial goals. The curriculum includes expository writing to explain financial planning, encouraging higher-order skills. Authentic assessments ensure learners can apply financial concepts in real life. By pairing language acquisition with practical financial skills, the program equips students to make informed decisions, access financial services, and progress toward long-term economic self-sufficiency and integration.
LA Unified School District’s DACE launched the Financial Literacy COAAP in Fall 2024 to support adult immigrant English language learners in achieving financial independence. Rooted in the CAEP program areas of Adult Basic/Secondary Education and ESL, this initiative aligns with California’s Immigrant Integration priority. Implemented across DACE adult schools districtwide, the program teaches practical financial planning and banking skills. Based on student feedback from EL Civics surveys, the curriculum connects English language development with real-world financial tasks. Students complete authentic assessments, such as creating budgets and financial goals. Through structured, contextualized instruction, the program addresses a vital need for economic integration in immigrant communities.
The DACE Financial Literacy COAAP is highly replicable across adult education programs. Its modular curriculum adapts to varying English levels and includes step-by-step guides, authentic assessments, and digital resources requiring minimal technology. The program has been successfully implemented across diverse student populations in DACE. With its clear objectives, standards-aligned instruction, and cultural relevance, other adult education agencies can adopt the model to promote immigrant integration and financial independence in their own communities.
The Unique Features of the Program
The Financial Literacy COAAP offers a unique dual-purpose design, building both English proficiency and financial capability. It introduces mobile banking and electronic transfers, recognizing the transnational financial realities of immigrant learners. Instruction includes SMART goal setting and expository essay writing—skills commonly used in academic and workplace settings. The program’s culturally responsive design ties lessons to students’ lived experiences, enhancing engagement. Unlike traditional ESL programs, it bridges financial literacy and language development, creating a life-skills-oriented model with applications in employment, education, and everyday financial decision-making.
The Outcome
The DACE Financial Literacy COAAP has served 5,074 students since Fall 2024, with 4,824 (95%) successfully completing task assessments. Student outcomes include a 37% increase in financial vocabulary knowledge and 82% reporting active use of bank accounts. Surveys show 78% now make independent financial decisions. Instructors note increased classroom confidence and improved performance on financial topics. Students have successfully created budgets, planned savings goals, and demonstrated understanding of banking services. Testimonies confirm the program’s impact, with students applying lessons to family budgeting and small business operations. These outcomes demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in promoting both academic and real-world financial skills.