Bring real‑world financial learning directly to your students. The Michigan Department of Treasury Financial Reality course is a hands‑on, engaging program designed for classrooms fifth grade and up. Educators can request an in‑person session where our team comes out to lead the activity, or you can download the slide deck and run the exercise on your own.
In this interactive simulation, each student is assigned a brand‑new identity. That includes:
With this new identity, students must work through the challenge of balancing a monthly budget. They’ll make real‑life financial decisions about housing, transportation, food, childcare, entertainment, and more—learning firsthand how everyday choices impact financial stability.
The exercise gives students a realistic look at:
Teachers consistently report that students come away with a much stronger understanding of personal finance and a new appreciation for the financial responsibilities adults manage every day.
