TOMS RIVER – Department of Banking and Insurance Acting Commissioner Ken Kobylowski today urged a group of high school seniors at Toms River High School North to save their money, be careful with credit cards, maintain a good credit score and be careful what they post on social media. Speaking to a group of nearly 500 seniors as part of the Department’s ongoing financial literacy program, the Acting Commissioner warned the group that some financial choices can not be easily undone.

“The financial decisions you make today will affect the rest of your life,” Acting Commissioner Kobylowski said. “Being smart about your money can be just as important as being book smart.”

Following his presentation, Acting Commissioner Kobylowski answered questions from students and staff about DOBI’s role in government, the necessary steps for home buying, and interest rates.

Since 2006, DOBI and its partners have reached thousands of students in public high schools in all 21 counties with financial literacy programs. In addition, a new financial literacy high school graduation requirement began in New Jersey last year with the 2010-2011 ninth grade class. All students will take at least 2.5 credits in financial, economic, business and entrepreneurial literacy. By graduation, students will demonstrate an understanding about how the economy works and their own role in the economy, as well as develop the necessary skills to effectively manage personal finances.

In 2012, DOBI representatives have spoken to students and visited schools in Bayonne, Brick Township, Highland Park, Marlboro Township, Newark and Perth Amboy.