High school students get reality check as they learn about finances

Graduating from high school and going into the real world can be tough, but a program in Idaho Falls is making that transition easier.

For the sixth year, the Idaho Falls Community transition team brought “Reality Town” to students. They were given a new identity, a fake family, a profession and acted as if they had moved to a new town. Participants had to figure out the cost of housing, transportation, insurance, and other living expenses.

To help keep tabs and balance it all, students were given a handbook and personalized account record.

Students went off to different booths where they were taught the highs and lows that come with of real financial experiences.

Whether a plus or a negative, each expense taught them a lesson.

“It helped me get money for my retirement and understanding how important it is to save money,” said 18-year-old Tylie Hendricks.

The Idaho Falls Community transition team said that many of the volunteers come back year after year because of how much they enjoy teaching the kids.

Volunteers said they wish they had a program like this when they were a kid.