APS New Work for Credit: Economics and Personal Finance

Overview

APS New Work for Credit Economics and Personal Finance is an asynchronous course that explores the general scope of economics and personal finance. It is taught by certified Arlington Public Schools teachers. Students explore the American enterprise system, economic principles, economics of supply/demand, labor and industry, the Federal Reserve System, governmental fiscal policies, and the comparison of economic systems of major countries and economics philosophies to develop an understanding of the impact of global trade. Students learn the major areas of financial and investment planning, stock market, annuities, return on investments, retirement and estate planning, consumer credit and money management, budgeting, financial statements, insurance and risk management, home ownership, planning for college education, payroll taxes, consumer protection laws and financial responsibilities. The course incorporates all economics and financial literacy graduation requirements. The W!se Financial Literacy Test may be administered for students to earn the graduation requirement of a Career and Technical credential in the fall at the student’s home school. Consult with your school counselor for more information.

Eligibility

Students must be enrolled in an APS high school. It is recommended that students complete the course as a rising sophomore or above, as the topics are more relevant and applicable to students.

Dates

July 6 – July 31, 2026

Location & Times

This program is virtual.

Additional Information

Work Requirements

This is a one-credit new-work-for-credit course. It is a year-long course condensed into a four week period. Students should block out 5 to 6 hours each weekday to complete the assigned work for the duration of the course.
Canvas will be used as the Learning Management System. Students should work consistently on the course assignments and proactively communicate with their virtual teacher to seek help with course materials. Teachers will provide unit deadlines within the course.
Each student must have their own email address and provide an email for a parent or guardian in order to communicate with the teacher directly about assignments. Communication includes interim progress reports, assignment feedback, reminders, etc.
There are no synchronous days, so students may work at their own pace. Teachers have found that if a student does not have access or limited access to the internet, it is best to work ahead in the course.
All coursework must be completed during these dates of the course. Unfortunately, we are not able to excuse work or provide extra time for students that cannot adhere to this timeline.

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: Can I take the New Work for Credit Economics and Personal Finance course, as well as the New Work for Credit Physical Education course?

A: There is nothing preventing a student from taking both courses; however, it is not recommended for most students. The EPF course is a year long course condensed into a four week period and is a tremendous amount of work.

Q: Is there an option to take this course in person?

A: No. The New Work for Credit EPF course is only available online.

Q: Can I work outside the timeline of the course?

A: No. All work must be completed within the dates of the course.

Q: I will be on vacation for part of the class. Can I still take the course?

A: Yes. Keep in mind that the course is a year long course condensed into a four week period and is a tremendous amount of work. Teachers have found that students who work ahead of the pace are the most successful in these situations.

Q: What if I start the course and am unable to finish?

A: A student may drop the course prior to the end of the course; however, refunds for New Work for Credit courses will only be granted following the APS policy.

Q: When will my teacher contact me?

A: Teachers will reach out to students just prior to the start of summer school.

Q: Is this course the same as Virtual Virginia?

A: This course is taught by certified Arlington Public School teachers and is different from Virtual Virginia, which is an outside provider. Course dates and timelines are different so keep track of what course you registered for!

Q: Will the W!se test administered during summer school?

A: The W!se test is not administered for students in the New Work for Credit courses. Students may take the test in the fall at their home school.