A key element of the new high school graduation requirements is one requiring students to take a course in personal finance. Much of the attention given to the new graduation requirements focuses on the core subjects – math, science, social studies, and communications. But there is also a requirement that high schoolers complete a course in personal finance. Stan Mengel, President of the Missouri Council on Economic Education, is one of the driving forces behind this initiative. He says financial restraint should be taught from an early age – a very early age – perhaps learning in kindergarten that they cannot have everything they want. Mengel says the financial responsibility kids learn in high school should help them as they move onto college or into the work force – and are introduced to credit cards. The changes start with the graduating class of 2010.