Limestone Financial Credit Union (Limestone FCU) recently hosted two Financial Reality Fairs for middle and high school students at Big Bay de Noc School. (Courtesy photo)

SCHOOLCRAFT COUNTY – Limestone Financial Credit Union (Limestone FCU) recently hosted two Financial Reality Fairs, with support from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation, for middle and high school students at Big Bay de Noc School.

This event provided students with a hands-on opportunity to navigate real-world financial decisions at an early age. A total of 38 middle school students and 40 high school students participated in the interactive event, designed to teach budgeting, smart spending habits and the importance of financial literacy.

During the fair, students stepped into the role of working professionals, selecting careers and managing monthly expenses including housing, transportation, groceries, entertainment and more. The goal was to create a balanced budget while navigating unexpected financial challenges that mirror real-life financial responsibilities.

“Students often learn about money in theory, but Financial Reality Fairs give them a chance to experience real-life decision-making,” said Kiarra Herson, member education coordinator at Limestone FCU. “It helps them understand how quickly expenses add up and why budgeting matters. It opens their eyes to what comes after high school and that is what we find is most important, helping students build the strongest possible foundation for life after graduation.”

Student feedback highlighted the meaningful impact of the Financial Reality Fair, with many participants describing the experience as both eye-opening and informative. A common theme among responses was surprise at the true cost of everyday living, with students noting how expensive essentials like transportation, food and basic needs can be.

Several participants also shared how quickly money can add up or disappear, as well as how unexpected expenses can significantly impact their financial situation. One student shared, “I was surprised by how fast money disappears,” reflecting a sentiment echoed by many of their peers.

Other students were also surprised by their final outcomes, ranging from having money left over to ending in debt, reinforcing the importance of budgeting and planning ahead. Others expressed a better understanding of how money works overall and how manageable finances can be with the right tools and support, including working with a credit union.

Samantha Kuehl, dean of students at Big Bay de Noc School, said, “It is so great that Limestone was able to make it over here to provide our students with this opportunity. We usually get lumped in with Manistique Schools, but to have our own fair with the time and attention put towards us is so amazing! Plus, we get to see some Big Bay Alumni!”

Volunteers participated from Limestone FCU, Carmeuse Lime & Stone, Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District, Grover Real Estate, InvestUP, Iverson’s Home Center, Schoolcraft County, Schoolcraft County Road Commission, and Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital. Our volunteers included: Amy Berglund, Jessica Baker, Rochell Blixt, Traci Brown, Piper Desey, Kathy Frankovich, Kristina Hansen, Regina Johannes, Heather LaLonde, Ariel Maddox, Alesha Miller, Sabrina Oshelski, Rita Strom, Alyssa Swanson, Jean Vanderville, Travis Wood, Kiarra Herson, and Michaela Zuzula.

Limestone FCU expresses their thankfulness and is deeply grateful for their contributions.

For more information on Limestone FCU, visit limestonefcu.com or text our team at 906-341-5866.