October 30, 2025 – Mexico Middle School partnered with the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce recently to host the Reality Store, a hands-on budgeting simulation that gave eighth graders a glimpse of real-world financial decision-making.

During the event, students were assigned careers, incomes, and family scenarios, then visited booths staffed by local business and community leaders to make choices about housing, transportation, childcare, and other expenses. The goal was to help students understand how education and career planning impact future financial stability and independence.

What did the students say?

• "Taxes and children cost a lot of money." 
• "I didn't know you had to get insurance for EVERYTHING." 
• "That you have to have a certain percent for home loans." 
• "Being an adult is stressful, and you have to be mindful about what you buy." 

Kelsey Kirchoff, MMS Social Worker, commented that on the exit survey the students always comment on how much health insurance and car insurance cost.

Event organizers Amiee Blackburn and Suzanne Evans said the event wouldn’t be possible without strong community support and local volunteers who make the simulation both fun and meaningful for students.