Statistics and general public feedback show that many students don’t have the financial knowledge and skills to make healthy financial decisions. Money management and career path development are both important areas that need to be addressed among our youth population so they are better equipped to make healthier financial decisions. Local schools requested the 4-H Reality Store program.  The 4-H Reality Store program is a real-life simulation that allows the student to see how their financial choices in relation to their salary based on their career path will affect their overall financial situation. 

The Hardin County Extension 4-H Agent collaborated with the school system transition readiness facilitator, middle school family resource youth services coordinators, teachers and more than 150 community members from local businesses/organizations to bring this event to five middle schools during the 2022-2023 school year.  For the 2023-2024 school year, we have expanded and added on an independent middle school from within the county that both 7th grade and 8th grade will participate. To date, the agent worked with teachers to provide curriculum to complete five lessons in financial management prior to the event in two schools and four additional schools will continue with the program this Spring.  

One of the topics students covered in class prior to the Reality Store was evaluating career choices.  Many students indicated thier career choice may change after the experience.

In total 1192 7^th & 8th graders have participated in the program. Teachers followed up with  participants after the conclusion of the programs already held. Survey results concluded the following:

80% shared they felt their knowledge of budgeting money increased after the program

88 % shared they increased their knowledge of making wise financial decisions

76% shared they increased their knowledge in how much money it takes to raise a child

75% shared they better understand the need for saving for the future

One student was reported to say that “I had no idea how much my mom must struggle to make ends meet, raising kids is expensive.”