I think motivation is key. That said, I think that the engagement in the 'personal finance' section of a HS class would also be low, maybe not for graduating seniors, but definitely for freshmen. Teaching is tricky, my SO is in education and it's not easy. Kids don't tell you things like their hunger issues, romantic issues, home life, etc. They may not even know they are having an issue, young as they are. Hormones are never going to stop making them nuts. Top that all off with budget problems (most US districts have not increased funding since 2008, pop. growth and inflation be damned) and other bureaucratic stuff, and you get a heck of a mess. Staying motivated as an educator is pretty tough, let along inspiring them to be motivated. At the end of the day, the kids are responsible for themselves largely, just like most humans have always been.