REALITY FAIR
TRANSITION GROUP/FOCUS: M, H
Overview A reality fair is an interactive financial literacy tool that allows students the opportunity to figuratively experience some of the financial challenges they may face once they are living on their own. The event involves students rotating through different booths where they are assigned a career with a salary. The students must then pay bills and manage other life expenses with their available funds. This hands-on experience simulates real-life financial decision-making opportunities based on a fictitious chosen career, starting salary, and grade point average (GPA).
Timeframe Throughout the school year
Outcomes • • • • • • •
Creates a better understanding of the financial aspects of life after high school Enables the student to recognize the correlation between academic achievement and potential financial success Develops a stronger understanding of basic financial concepts through hands-on financial decision-making Creates financial literacy in students and equips them with the knowledge and skills they need to manage money effectively Facilitates financial conversations to create a better understanding of the student’s future financial needs Simulates the importance of creating and maintaining a budget Teaches the importance of a credit score and its impact on financial security and purchasing
Implementation 1. Using the school’s transition team or other advisor staff groups, research the style, format, and design simulation for the event the school would like to host. (See the “Resources” section below for examples.) 2. Determine the dates and location to hold the reality fair. 3. Using the schools’ communication plan, begin promoting the event for students and families. 4. Prior to the event, cross-curricular teams should develop lessons to provide students with the knowledge they need around budgeting and common expenditures that could give insight into life after high school graduation. 5. Review the digital resources provided below on how to plan and implement a reality fair. The planning team should also inquire within the community about any organization that may provide this type of event for students. If so, communicate that this will be an event for middle school students. 6. Develop guidance for students on the expectations for behavior and engagement during the event. 7. Provide multiple ways for families, volunteers, and students to give feedback on their experience after the event has occurred.
RELEASED SPRING 2022
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