Limestone FCU, with support from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, Hosts Middle School Financial Reality Fair at JKL Bahweting School
Limestone Financial Credit Union (Limestone FCU) recently hosted a Middle School Financial Reality Fair, with support from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, for 8th grade students at JKL Bahweting School. This event provided middle school students with a hands-on opportunity to navigate real-world financial decisions at an early age. A total
of 54 students participated in the interactive event, designed to teach budgeting, smart
spending habits, and the importance of financial literacy.
“Watching students work through their budgets at the Financial Reality Fair is always
so rewarding. The 8th grade students at JKL Bahweting were incredibly engaged as
they navigated real-world financial decisions and experienced firsthand how
budgeting works in everyday life. Events like this give students an early introduction to
financial responsibility.”— Sophie Shepard, Branch Manager and Loan Officer
During the fair, students stepped into the role of working professionals, selecting careers and
managing monthly expenses including housing, transportation, groceries, entertainment, and
more. The goal was to create a balanced budget while navigating unexpected financial
challenges that mirror real-life financial responsibilities
Student feedback highlighted the meaningful impact of the Financial Reality Fair, with many
participants describing the experience as both engaging and eye-opening. Several students
shared that the activity was more enjoyable than expected, with one noting, “It was a lot more
fun than I thought it would be. I learned a lot about budgeting.” A common takeaway among
participants was a greater awareness of the cost of everyday living, including housing,
transportation, food, and family expenses. One student even remarked that they learned
children are really expensive, reflecting a new understanding of the financial responsibilities
that come with adulthood. Others commented on the importance of making thoughtful
spending choices, with one student sharing that the experience taught them not to be afraid
of choosing lower-cost options. Overall, most students said the fair helped them better
understand budgeting, how quickly expenses add up, and the importance of planning ahead
when managing money.
“Students were given a job, some had families, and all had bills to pay. The financial
simulations provided students an opportunity to make financial decisions and
experience the outcome of their decisions. Some students went into debt while others
were able to save some money. The students were engaged and enjoyed the activity.”— Aaron Litzner, MS Language Arts Teacher, JKL Bahweting School
“It was awesome sauce.”
— Student at JKL Bahweting School
“I learned that I shouldn’t be afraid to be cheap.”
— Student at JKL Bahweting School
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the following volunteers for their dedication
and support. Volunteers participated from Limestone FCU, 4Front Credit Union, Chippewa
Luce Mackinac Community Action Agency, Sault Area High School NHS Students, and UP
Michigan Works!. Our volunteers included: Sheena Adams, Alena Alcorn, Macy Collia, Jakob
Davie, Marissa Delorey, Ayla Habusta, Kiarra Herson, Joy Kerfoot, Sami LaPlaunt, Jen Labonte,
Brinna Metrish, Hayden Pace, Lynn Pulfrey, Emily Pruitt, Sophie Shepard, Sabrina Oshelski,
Isaac Terrian, Andrea Vaught, and Emma Zabik. Their time and efforts were invaluable to the
success of the event, and Limestone FCU is deeply grateful for their contributions.
Limestone FCU remains committed to promoting financial education within the communities
it serves. By equipping young adults with financial knowledge and practical experience, the
credit union continues to empower students to build strong financial foundations for their
futures.
