8th graders recently participated in the Welcome to the Real World Program.
The class had the opportunity to participate in a youth development program thanks to 4H and U of I Extension. The Real World unit is designed as a series of learning activities that culminate in a simulation experience related to “real world” decision making. Our students were able to:
-Make consumer choices related to future independent living
-Learn skills needed to manage their finances
-Evaluate their success in managing their monthly income and expenses
-Explore how to balance a budget
Community volunteers partnered with MHS staff and the U of I Extension office to bring the simulations directly to the classroom. Sheena Hammond of City Hall was one of the volunteers that provided information on how to pay a utility bill in a timely manner.
4H promotes programs like this because “not only do students learn Readiness skills, Financial Literacy, and Personal Development, they are empowered to become young leaders, innovators, stewards, and builders.”