I agree that there is a tremendous need to provide children with training in money matters as was presented April 12 in "Teach 'em how to handle money."

We cannot rely on parents alone to prepare our future work force and leaders for participation in a complex marketplace. Many parents don't have the training themselves or the access to sound financial advice or affordable financial services to provide their children with the information and tools to make better financial decisions. Schools are essential to teaching these skills to all children early and repeating them often. According to a recent Elon University poll, more than 90 percent of North Carolinians agree that financial education should be required in public school. And adults, too, need access to the financial advice and training that will support sound money management.

Coordinating and supporting the delivery of financial education for all North Carolinians from cradle to retirement promotes economic stability. Elected officials have introduced a bill in the Senate and House to establish a Financial Literacy Council in North Carolina that would do just that. Such an effort is just in time.

Alexandra Forter Sirota

Director of Policy and Research, Action for Children North Carolina

Raleigh