Over 200 seniors in the Lake Pend Oreille School District are expected to attend the annual senior finance fair being held virtually today.

The event was previously held in-person at North Summit Church in Sandpoint. However, this year, students will attend virtually, taking part in a variety of events including a money management game show with prizes and live financial education events.

Students will also have the chance to earn a $500 scholarship from the Selkirk Association of Realtors by writing a one-page paper about three things they learned following the event. The papers are due by Friday, April 30, and winners will be notified May 7.

The financial education events include role-playing exercises for students randomly assigned a life story, individualized job, salary, family and financial obligations.

The program is part of the Spokane Teachers Credit Union “My Life, My Money” series. Like in real life, some students will be assigned comfortable salaries while others will struggle to make ends meet. Students will develop a budget, and use it to purchase necessities and some luxuries.

“I think they’re really surprised how much it costs,” said Elizabeth Burtner, STCU community development manager. “They have to buy a house, and make a house payment, and pay for groceries. And when they see how much diapers cost if they have a child, they’re really shocked.”

Those “expenses” will include decisions such as choosing between buying a car or using public transportation, renting or buying a home and saving or spending money. Students will also face unexpected costs, such as car repairs.

“Our students have been through so much this year,” said Sandpoint High School post-secondary transition counselor Jeralyn Mire “It’s been really inspiring to see everyone come together to provide kids these great financial education resources.”

STCU Bonner County Branch Manager Stacey Darley said helping to provide a strong financial education is a cornerstone of STCU’s mission.

“We’re thrilled that this event is able to carry on,” she said.

The fair is made possible by community partners including the Selkirk Association of Realtors, Community Assistance League of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille School District. STCU provides the “My Life, My Money” program materials.