On Friday, February 27, Penn Middle School hosted its annual Financial Reality Fair in partnership with Pheple Federal Credit Union. Eighth-grade students participated alongside peers from Trafford Middle School for a hands-on learning experience centered on financial literacy and responsible decision-making.
During the event, students were assigned salaries based on the careers they hope to pursue in the future. Using these salaries, they worked through realistic monthly expenses, including housing, food, utilities, transportation, and savings. The goal was to create a balanced budget while making thoughtful financial choices that allowed them to meet their needs and still set money aside for the future.
One of the most popular features of the fair was the “Wheel of Reality.” Students spun the wheel to experience unexpected financial gains or setbacks, such as receiving a tax refund or paying for a car repair. This activity helped demonstrate the unpredictability of real-life finances and the importance of planning ahead.
The challenge for students was to complete the simulation with money remaining in their savings account.
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the team at Pheple Federal Credit Union for sponsoring and supporting this event, helping to make this valuable learning experience possible for our students,” said School Counselor Miss Suzie Schrinel. “The Financial Reality Fair provided an engaging and meaningful opportunity for students to think critically about their futures and begin preparing for the responsibilities of adulthood.”
Penn Middle School student Zachary Schandler spins the Wheel of Reality while Pheple’s Susan Lawson looks on
Pheple’s Team Development & Recruitment Coordinator, Kirsten Knaus, leads a session on transportation expenses