School Committee introduces Adulting 101 course to teach essential life skills

The Fall River City Instructional Subcommittee recently discussed the introduction of a new elective course, "Adulting 101," aimed at equipping high school seniors with essential life skills. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for practical education that prepares students for real-world challenges, such as budgeting, paying bills, and understanding banking.

During the meeting, committee members emphasized the importance of teaching students not only practical skills but also the significance of finding meaning and purpose in their lives. The course is designed to be flexible, allowing students to guide the curriculum based on their interests, which could enhance engagement and relevance.

While the current plan is to offer "Adulting 101" as an elective for seniors, there is a vision to expand this program to younger students in the future. Committee members expressed a desire for the course to eventually become a requirement, ensuring that all students demonstrate competency in these vital life skills before graduation.

Several members voiced their support for broadening the curriculum to include topics like home buying, investing, and entrepreneurship. They believe that such knowledge is crucial for students as they transition into adulthood. The idea of incorporating guest speakers from various professions was also proposed, allowing students to gain insights from community leaders about real-life financial responsibilities.

The discussions highlighted a shared commitment among committee members to enhance the educational experience for students in Fall River. As they await further guidance from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regarding competency determination, the subcommittee remains optimistic about the potential impact of "Adulting 101" on students' preparedness for life after high school. This initiative aligns with broader community goals of fostering responsible, informed citizens who are ready to navigate the complexities of adult life.