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Athens high schoolers learn budgeting, aid community

The "Thrifty Spending" project, funded by a grant from the Athens City Schools Foundation, let students learn personal finance and budgeting.

ATHENS, Ala. — Nearly 30 students from Athens High School recently got to go on a unique shopping trip at a nearby grocery store. But unlike typical outings, these students weren't shopping for themselves. Instead, they were using their budgeting skills while making a difference in the community.

The initiative, named "Thrifty Spending," was started by Athens High School Career and Technical Education Finance Academy Teachers, Mrs. Brandi Foster and Mrs. Shaneka Harris. Thanks to a $1,000 grant from the Athens City Schools Foundation, the project hopes to educate students about personal finance and budgeting.

“Many students do not have a real understanding of the actual cost of food and other items. We hope this experience opened their eyes to how helpful and necessary a budget can be when shopping,” said Harris.

Throughout the trip, students got to learn comparison shopping, bulk and unit pricing, taxes, and how to use discounts and coupons to maximize savings. Using calculators and teamwork, student groups went through the aisles, making smart purchases. Athens City Schools says every item purchased during the shopping day will be donated to support local families in need.

“We are excited to offer this hands-on opportunity for our students to practice everything that they have learned over the past few weeks. What a wonderful way to practice budgeting while giving back and supporting several families in our community,” said Foster.

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