BURGAW, NC - Students at Pender High School got a hands-on lesson in personal finance today as representatives from the State Employees’ Credit Union joined school and district staff for SECU’s Reality of Money financial simulation.
Designed for students in grades 8–12, the interactive activity gave students the opportunity to step into real-world financial decision-making. Each student received a profile that included a profession, salary, marital status, and number of children, then worked through a series of stations to build a monthly budget based on their assigned scenario.
Stations included categories such as housing, groceries, clothing, communications, entertainment, automobile, and “next payday,” allowing students to see how everyday choices affect their finances. A help station was also available to guide students when their budgets became tight and they needed to rethink their spending decisions.
According to SECU, the Reality of Money simulation is “a valuable hands-on, interactive, real-world activity suggested for students in grades 8-12” that helps students explore important financial concepts, including the value of education beyond high school and the impact bad credit can have on lifestyle choices.
Throughout the event, Central Office staff, school personnel, and SECU representatives worked together to man the stations and support students as they made decisions about monthly expenses. Organizers said students were highly engaged, thoughtful in their choices, and eager to work through the challenges of balancing a budget.
Pender High School Principal Nick Paquette said the experience gave students an important look at life beyond the classroom.
“Opportunities like this help our students connect what they are learning in school to the real financial decisions they will face as adults,” Paquette said. “It was great to see them so engaged, asking thoughtful questions, and really considering how their choices impact their future.”
