Awards Recognize Efforts of Rural Schools, Communities, and Libraries

State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster presented her first Standing Up for Rural Schools, Communities, and Libraries awards on March 9 during the annual Small Schools Conference in Wisconsin Rapids.

The awards recognize the efforts of Wisconsin rural communities that have advocated for their schools, libraries, and way of life at a time when many are threatened by difficult financial challenges. "We have strong schools because of the capable teachers and administrators, engaged business and community leaders, and active parents working together to keep schools strong," Burmaster said.

Spencer public schools reality store:
State Superintendent Burmaster;
Judy Nystrom, Marshfield area chamber of commerce;
Michael Endress, Spencer elementary;
David Wessel, Spencer school district

An award was presented to:

Reality Store
Spencer Public Schools/Marshfield Chamber of Commerce
Spencer, WI

In partnership with the Marshfield Area Chamber Foundation and the Spencer Public Schools a "Reality Store" was implemented in 2002. The Reality Store is a program designed to provide students a first-hand experience with household budgets, making a living, and providing for oneself and others.

Students are assigned specific life roles, including whether they are single or married, have children or not, and rent or own a home, as well as a career, an income, and family status. Based on these parameters, they assemble a monthly budget.

Local businesses have representatives at the store. These are people with whom adults interact on a regular basis to set up households and fill monthly needs. With the help of these business people, students "buy" groceries, cable television services, automobiles, clothing, etc. In addition, they must purchase services such as health and child care.

The school provides pre-activities for students related to financial literacy to determine net monthly income based on their local taxes. A discussion of career choices and training to enter these fields is also a key component. It is a relevant, practical and fun way to teach valuable "life" lessons to these students.

As many students are unsure of their career choices and what they wish to pursue, the Reality Store ultimately teaches students that education is the key to the future.

For questions about this information, contact dpifin@dpi.wi.gov (608) 267-9114

Last updated on 8/30/2005 1:13:01 PM