HHS teachers Mrs. Denita Jarratt and Ms. Nekita Johnson’s Family and Consumer Sciences classes recently took part in a program called “On My Own,” which was facilitated by Tiffany Thomas, Walter Dirl, and Travis Wade with the UT Extension Service. “On My Own” is a hands-on, real-life simulation that gives students the opportunity to experience their futures in a fun and exciting way. They are encouraged to make healthy and wise lifestyle choices similar to those that adults face on a daily basis.
After exploring careers, participants receive a monthly salary for their chosen career and a family scenario. Then they proceed through “real life,” deducting taxes, determining a savings amount, and spending their monthly salary on food, clothing, housing, transportation, and daycare among other things.