News Release

WINAMAC — Purdue Extension Kosciusko County partnered with Winamac School to bring the “Reality Store” program to 71 eighth-grade students. The educational initiative consists of six interactive sessions, each lasting 45 minutes, designed to teach essential money management skills.

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

Survey results reveal that 98% of students who participated in the Reality Store program reported gaining knowledge that will positively impact their lives. Key findings include:

• 100% of participants intend to set aside funds for emergencies and unforeseen circumstances
• 98% now understand the importance of having a comprehensive spending/saving plan
• 92% are proficient in completing and managing a check registry

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

When asked what key takeaways they gained, students shared comments such as:

• Being an adult is challenging and managing money wisely is crucial. This program has taught me to appreciate my parents and all they do to support me financially.
• The cost of essential expenses like housing, groceries, utilities, child care and clothing is far higher than I ever imagined.
• I’ve learned the importance of budgeting carefully and saving more.
• I now understand how to effectively manage my finances.
• Money disappears much faster than you earn or save it.
• I’ve learned to choose more affordable options and pay closer attention to prices.

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 & Human Science educator, by calling (574) 372-2340 or sending an email to [email protected].