Volunteer Debbie Mix assists a student at the "Clothing Table" at the West Central Middle School Reality Store session.

This innovative educational initiative consisted of six interactive sessions, each lasting 45 minutes, designed to teach essential money management skills.

Through "Reality Store," students engaged in hands-on activities that empower them to track their spending, create budgets, devise weekly meal plans and navigate typical monthly expenses.

This practical approach not only enhances financial literacy but also prepares students for real-life financial responsibilities.

Survey results reveal that an overwhelming 98 percent of students who participated in the “Reality Store” program reported gaining valuable knowledge that will positively impact their lives. Key findings include:

• 98 percent plan to save for emergencies or unexpected events, equipping themselves with the tools for financial resilience.
• 98 percent now understand the importance of budgeting, laying a foundation for smart financial decisions in the future.
• 96 percent are confident in their ability to complete a check registry, a crucial skill for managing personal finances.

These results highlight the program's success in empowering students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to navigate their financial futures with confidence.

Invaluable real-life lessons emerged from students, reflecting the lasting impact of the curriculum. When asked what key takeaways they gained, students shared eye-opening insights, such as:

• “You have to be careful and think through your spending choices.”
• “It’s expensive to be a parent.”
• “Life isn’t cheap, and if you’re not careful, you’ll be living paycheck to paycheck.”
• “Be more responsible with money.”
• “How to manage my finances better.”

These candid responses highlight the critical financial awareness instilled by the program, equipping students with a deeper understanding of budgeting, spending and long-term financial planning. The feedback underscores the program’s success in preparing young people to navigate the complex financial realities of adulthood.

For more information about the "Reality Store" program, or to learn how to implement it in your own school, please contact Shannon Shepherd, Kosciusko County Health & Human Science Educator, at (574) 372-2340 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Locally, more information may also be obtained by contacting Purdue Extension–Pulaski County at (574) 946-3412, or emailing Sam Williams, 4-H Youth Educator & Pulaski County Extension Director, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Remember, good financial habits start young!