Crypto-Friendly Schools: Where Kids Learn Blockchain Before Algebra

Education in blockchain technology doesn’t always start at university. Digital literacy is steadily making its way into secondary school programs, where students not only learn about decentralized platforms but also start interacting with them on a practical level. 

While Some Learn Math, Others Launch Tokens

Schools and universities that offer courses on cryptocurrencies may follow different approaches, but either way, it’s already happening.

This marks the beginning of a global trend, as the focus shifts from classical economics to the digital world. In some schools, children are introduced not only to terms like “deposit” and “credit,” but also to “private key,” “node,” and “staking.”

This isn’t a business game—it’s a new reality. Schools are joining in and starting to look for ways to integrate it into their programs. 

Clearly, the learning process needs to go much deeper than simply showing the right sequence of buttons. Teachers are tasked with explaining in clear terms how decentralized networks work, why they exist, and how a global crypto infrastructure is being built around them.

Here are a few schools already leading the way.

Bitcoin Beach School (El Salvador)

Bitcoin Beach originated as a social initiative to promote cryptocurrency in El Salvador, but quickly evolved into an educational hub. Although still local, the project demonstrates potential for scaling up to the national level.

In some local schools, students learn what Bitcoin is and how to use the Bitcoin Lightning Network in everyday life. For example, they earn micropayments for participating in school projects or make donations. 

Instead of dry theory, children receive a seamless, hands-on experience. Blockchain becomes a familiar part of their daily routine.

More on this remarkable place and initiative: Surf, Sun & Satoshis: Inside El Zonte, the Bitcoin Beach Town

Lomond School (Scotland)

Lomond School is a private boarding school in the coastal town of Helensburgh, near Glasgow. In 2024, it became the first school in the UK to accept Bitcoin as payment for tuition. The decision sparked discussion in both educational and financial circles, as such practices had previously been associated more with universities than with schools.

The school cites the move as part of its effort to build digital financial literacy from an early age, and as a response to growing interest from both local and international families seeking more innovative educational options. 

As part of the initiative, Lomond School is integrating blockchain education into the learning environment, including Web3 projects and discussions on the ethics of the digital economy.

The school officially announced it will begin accepting Bitcoin starting in the fall semester of 2025. The administration emphasizes that adopting cryptocurrency reflects its innovative approach to education and its commitment to preparing students for a changing financial landscape.

BitDegree (Lithuania)

The BitDegree educational platform offers teenagers an introduction to blockchain and cryptocurrency through accessible, engaging courses built around gamification and simple visuals. For example, the Web3 Basics course explains how the decentralized internet works, what blockchain is, and introduces crypto tokens, NFTs, and smart contracts. All materials are presented in a clear format that even children can understand.

BitDegree functions as an alternative to traditional computer science courses, with a focus on Web3. It makes complex subjects approachable and opens the door to the high-tech world of Web3 for a broad audience.

The platform also offers programs for older learners. For instance, the Cryptocurrency Investment course teaches how to analyze the market, build a strategy, and manage risk. 

Crypto on Campus

Some universities are now incorporating cryptocurrency not only as a form of tuition payment but also as part of their educational infrastructure.

King’s College (New York, USA)

King’s College was the first accredited college in the U.S. to accept BTC as payment for tuition. This happened in June 2014 through a partnership with Coin.co. 

The decision was both technological and ideological: the college administration openly declared its intent to move away from the banking system, using decentralized tools as a symbol of independence. 

At the time, the college was accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) 

Graduates of King’s College now work as developers on many blockchain projects active in the market today.

University of Nicosia (Cyprus)

The University of Nicosia was the first university in the world to not only accept Bitcoin but also launch a full master’s program in digital currencies and blockchain. It quickly became one of the largest centers for blockchain education in Europe.

The university’s approach is notably structured, encompassing academic courses, practical labs, and research initiatives. Here, cryptocurrency isn’t just accepted—it’s taught.

More on the topic: Learning Decentralization: How to Become a Web3 Developer?

Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania (USA)

The Wharton School, one of the oldest and most prestigious business schools in the world, is part of the University of Pennsylvania. In 2021, it became the first Ivy League institution to accept cryptocurrency as payment for tuition. This step was introduced alongside the launch of a specialized online program titled Economics of Blockchain and Digital Assets.

The program was developed in collaboration with consulting firm Prysm Group and included modules on decentralized finance, tokenization, and digital identity. Wharton sees Web3 as a strategic direction in training future market leaders and actively incorporates elements of the digital economy into its curriculum.

While some parents argue over whether humanity needs blockchain, others are already rewarding their children with symbolic tokens for a well-made presentation. Web3 doesn’t promise ready-made solutions, but it offers cutting-edge tools for control and digital identity. Schools that understand this are shifting course, teaching the next generation to navigate a complex and rapidly changing financial system.

And perhaps, in the future, the school year will begin not with a traditional assembly, but with elections for the school DAO council.

Related: Bitcoin Education Goes Academic: Inside the First Online Master’s Program