Students from the Pedro Menendez High School VyStar Academy of Business and Finance were able to experience the Reality Fair in 2021 after missing out in the 2020 school year. Reality fairs are supported by VyStar Credit Union and the University of Florida as an event for students to get a small taste into the expenses of life and the budgeting decisions that are made each day as working adults. Students are randomly given ‘situations’ which tell them their occupation, family status, monthly income, and credit score. From there, students hit 11 booths manned by PMHS business partners to make purchases and budget their monthly expenses. Students must buy/rent a house, a mode of transportation, insurance, groceries, and utilities. They can also donate to charity, invest in stocks or IRAs, purchase child care, or buy a vacation. It is a valuable learning experience for students to understand the importance of financial literacy. A special thank you goes out to PMHS business partners: VyStar Credit Union, Herff Jones, Leonard’s Studios, Cady Studios, and Equitable Financial.
