This week, United Way of Central Kansas delivered a time machine to Great Bend Middle School.
“Welcome to Realty U. You are now 26 years old,” facilitator Jacob Bentley said as eighth-graders entered the gym. The students were invited to imagine a possible future where they had bills to pay and decisions to make.
Reality U is a hands-on thought experiment in financial literacy. It was created by the Wichita-based Pando Initiative and sponsored by United Way of Central Kansas.
UWCK Executive Director Charell Owings said Reality U aims to make financial education both fun and engaging. On the day of the event, students receive scenarios outlining their monthly income, credit card debt, student loans, marital and family status. Armed with this information, they must manage their student passport, similar to a checkbook register, and navigate through twelve booths representing services and products adults typically contend with each month, including car purchases, housing decisions, utilities, insurance, phone and entertainment, retirement contributions and student loan repayment, childcare, clothing, and groceries.
Students also learn that their performance in school today can affect their financial future. Each student’s scenario is based on a questionnaire filled out in advance and also takes their Grade Point Average into account. A student with low grades won’t be a doctor or lawyer, but every student can complete the exercise with a positive bank balance if wise choices are made.
Bentley is with the Pando Initiative and was on hand Wednesday to talk to students and community volunteers about the experience. He emphasized the need for “an attitude of gratitude,” noting the students might want to thank their parents for all they do.
“Who thinks children are expensive?” Bentley asked. Students, and the adult volunteers who were also listening to the wrap-up, raised their hands. Bentley wanted to make sure they didn’t come away with the wrong lesson.
“The truth is, they are very expensive, but they are totally worth it,” he said. The adults in the audience agreed.
Owings said UWCK books Reality U every year. This year there will be another session in Barton County and one in Larned.
In addition to the Reality U simulation, students participated in breakout sessions, delving deeper into how present choices can shape their future.
• Reality After High School – Davis Jimenez discussed the financial realities they will face after high school.
• Cost of Delinquency – Ethan Thomas, GBMS School Resource Officer, talked about the legal consequences of poor choices, such as drinking and driving.
• Preparing for High School – GBHS Guidance Counselors talked about how to prepare for the transition to high school.
• Interviewing Skills – Great Bend High School JAG-KS Leadership members had tips on mastering job interviews.
• Youth Crew – Tyler Morton from Barton County Juvenile Services discussed community involvement and leadership opportunities through Youth Crew.
• Stress & Anxiety Management – Shanna Long from The Center for Counseling offered strategies for managing mental health and well-being.