The problem:  Elementary youth in 4th and 5th grade need to become efficient at counting money and budgeting their money.

The educational program response: There were 137 students from Central and Tollesboro Elementary participated in the Dollars and Sense Program. 

Students visit fourteen booths where they must purchase at least one item form each booth.  Students start by visiting the Bank booth first where they open a savnigs account and must deposit $20 in savings. This is to teach them the concept and importance of saving money.

The next booth was taxes and this booth is included since we pay taxes on almost evreything we purchase.  Another booth is transportation where the participant must purchase a form of transportation such as a bicycle, skateboard, or ATV,

Other booths include Fast Food, Health and Grooming, Bedroom Decor, Candy Store, Pet Care, Veterinarian, Entertainment, Charitable Contributions, and Chance.  There is also and SOS booth to help students that run out of money.

The participants/target audience: 4th and 5th grade students from Tollesboro and Central Elementary 

Other partners (if applicable):  Partners for the program include the Family Resource Centers and the Youth Services Center.

Program impact or participant response. A survey was conducted with 137 students after the program.  Of the 137 students 112 (82%) said they were better at counting money after the program and 88 (64%) said they plan to think about their budget before making a purchase.