KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Capital City Bank and Keystone Heights Junior High held their third annual Reality Check event in the school’s gymnasium.

“It is a somewhat immersive financial planning program for students,” said Assistant Director of Community Partnership Schools Isaac Morford.

During the event, eighth-grade students had the opportunity to learn about financial literacy and start preparing for their future.

Students received an envelope containing their jobs, marital status, family, and income. They were directed to the bank, housing and utility tables before being allowed to visit the other booths. Doctors, furniture, clothing, insurance and groceries were some of the tables available. Students learned how to balance their checkbooks and budget their income and taxes.

The school incorporated law enforcement, which allowed students to learn about fines and the importance of having a vehicle tag and insurance.

“This is a one-day event, but it’s an event that we are teaching those skills that they are going to have in real life,” Morford said.

The event was a success, as more than 500 students participated.

“That’s a big increase over the last few years,” Morford said.

Students said they found it engaging and asked to return for another session.

They also thought it was informative because they could speak with professionals and gain insight on various subjects for their futures.

Reality Check was made possible through local businesses, organizations, and individuals volunteering to operate the booths and answer any questions.

“Thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, staff and students. We were able to give over 500 students, from all grade levels, an opportunity to practice the financial realities they will be facing in their not-too-distant future,” said Morford.