News Release

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — Purdue Extension Kosciusko County partnered with West Central Middle School in Francesville, Pulaski County, to bring the “Reality Store” program to 56 students in eighth grade.

The 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 aimed at empowering them to track their spending, create budgets, devise weekly meal plans and navigate typical monthly expenses. The program’s goal was to enhance financial literacy and prepare students for real-life financial responsibilities.

Survey results reveal that 98% of students who participated in the “Reality Store” program reported gaining knowledge they expect to positively impact their lives.

Key findings include:

• 98% plan to save for emergencies or unexpected events.
• 98% now understand the importance of budgeting.
• 96% are confident in their ability to complete a check registry.

When asked what key takeaways they gained, students shared:

• “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.”

The responses highlight the financial awareness instilled by the program, equipping students with a deeper understanding of budgeting, spending and long-term financial planning.

For more information about the “Reality Store” program or to learn how to implement it in your own school, contact Shannon Shepherd, Kosciusko County health and human science educator, at (574) 372-2340 or via email at [email protected].