This week, our 8th grade students got a firsthand look at what it means to manage money in the real world. As part of a dynamic financial literacy simulation, each student was assigned a profession with a corresponding salary. They were also given real-life responsibilities, such as being single or married, and some even had children to consider in their budgeting.
Students “traveled” through various life expenses—including housing, transportation, groceries, and childcare—with the goal of finishing the experience at the bank with a balanced budget. Those who found themselves in the negative worked with volunteer bankers to reassess their spending choices and problem-solve ways to save.
The event offered students a fun, eye-opening introduction to personal finance and the realities of adult life. It was a great opportunity to build practical skills and better understand the value of budgeting, planning, and making smart financial decisions.
Here is the photo album!