HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Susan Burton, Communications Director
Paris, TN – November 5, 2025 – Henry County High School (HCHS) hosted its annual Reality Store event on Tuesday, November 4th, offering its sophomore class an engaging and eye-opening look at real-world financial responsibilities. The simulation is designed to promote financial literacy by confronting students with the challenges of adult life and budgeting.
During the immersive event, students stepped into the shoes of working adults, tasked with managing realistic monthly budgets based on various careers and incomes. They navigated critical life decisions, including finding appropriate housing, securing transportation, budgeting for groceries and childcare, and purchasing various types of insurance.
The hands-on experience, guided by a enthusiastic team of local community volunteers, provided students with invaluable insight into the often-complex balancing act required to manage income and expenses effectively.
School Counselor Dale Mathis, who coordinated the event alongside the HCHS Counseling Department, community members, and school staff, emphasized the program's impact. “Reality Store is such a great opportunity for our sophomores to learn about the realities that they will encounter as adults, and I'm so appreciative of all the community volunteers who came out to make it such a success for our students,” Mathis stated.
The event reinforces Henry County High School’s commitment to equipping students with the practical life skills and personal financial knowledge essential for post-graduation success.
Photos submitted by Stephanie Winders
Top photo: HCHS School Counselor Dale Mathis works with a sophomore student during the Reality Store, hosted by the school and staffed by community volunteers.
Photo 2: Shown are the group of community volunteers from local businesses and agencies who manned stations as students learned valuable lessons in budgeting.
