Springfield, IL – High school students from Naperville claimed the top spots in a statewide financial literacy competition, earning scholarships and a chance to compete nationally.
According to the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office, the Illinois Personal Finance Challenge brought together 579 students from across the state, with 10 teams advancing to the finals held April 14 in Springfield.
A team from Naperville Central High School secured first place, outperforming nine other finalist teams. The winning students will now advance to the National Personal Finance Challenge in Atlanta, Georgia, scheduled for May 31 through June 1. Each team member received a $1,500 Bright Start college savings scholarship.
Officials say the second-place team from Neuqua Valley High School, also located in Naperville, earned $1,000 scholarships for each student.
The competition tested students on real-world financial topics, including income, saving, credit management, investing, and risk. Finalists first completed an online exam before competing in a case study and quiz bowl format at the state level.
According to the Treasurer’s Office, 169 teams participated earlier in the year, highlighting growing interest in financial literacy education statewide.
Students and organizers emphasized the importance of the program in preparing young people for future financial decisions. Treasurer Michael Frerichs said the initiative helps equip students with skills to manage money, plan for education, and build long-term financial stability.
The annual competition continues to expand, drawing participation from schools across Illinois, including Aurora, Normal, Collinsville, and Palatine.
