High Schoolers Learn Value Of A Buck At Financial Literacy Fair

EAST HARTFORD, CT — More than 450 high school students from across the Greater Hartford region gathered recently at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford to take part in a daylong financial simulation designed to prepare them for adult money decisions.

The event, hosted by American Eagle Financial Credit Union, brought together 457 students from 17 high schools, along with local officials and community partners.

Using the “Bite of Reality” app, students were assigned careers and salaries, then tasked with building monthly budgets by visiting stations covering housing, transportation, food, and other expenses.

The exercise required participants to weigh needs against wants while navigating unexpected financial scenarios.

Howard Brady, chief executive officer of American Eagle, said the program is aimed at building independence through practical experience.

“This event gives teens the chance to navigate real-world financial scenarios, equipping them with the confidence and skills to make smart decisions as they transition into adulthood,” Brady said.

East Hartford Mayor Connor Martin and David Hinchey, vice president of community and social impact at Connecticut’s Credit Unions, attended alongside volunteers.

Hinchey said the simulation reflects a broader statewide effort by credit unions to expand financial education.

“American Eagle and other credit unions across the state work together to host these simulations, helping students learn how to manage money, save for retirement, build strong credit, handle debt, and prepare for life’s unexpected challenges,” he said.

Organizers said the program is part of a long-running partnership between American Eagle and Connecticut’s Credit Unions.

Since 2008, more than 50,000 students statewide have participated in the Bite of Reality experience.

Participating schools included:

• Conard High School (West Hartford)
• CREC Academy of International Studies (Bloomfield)
• CREC Impact Academy (Hartford)
• East Hampton High School
• East Hartford High School
• Glastonbury High School
• Great Path Academy (Manchester)
• Hall High School (West Hartford)
• New Britain High School
• Opportunity Academy at Our Piece of the Pie (Hartford)
• Pathways Academy of Technology & Design (East Hartford)
• RHAM High School (Hebron)
• Rocky Hill High School
• Simsbury High School
• Sport & Medical Sciences Academy (Hartford)
• St. Paul Catholic High School (Bristol)
• Wethersfield High School

Community partners supporting the event included the Connecticut State Treasurer’s Office, Connecticut Financial Scholars, Connecticut Foodshare, Coca-Cola, Dunkin’, the Luke Roux Foundation, and ShopRite Waverly Markets.

Officials said they plan to continue expanding access to financial literacy programs for high school students in the region.