Pike County FCS

Kirby High School recently hosted Extension’s “Get Real – Here’s the Deal” event, bringing together students from both Kirby and Centerpoint High Schools for an engaging, real-world learning experience.

This hands-on simulation featured twelve interactive stations designed to help students step into their future and navigate financial decision-making. Each student was given a unique life scenario—including a career, salary, marital status, number of children, and tax deductions—along with a check register and starting balance.

As they moved through the exhibit, students made choices similar to those adults face every day. From buying a home or car, selecting insurance, opening a credit card, and budgeting for groceries and family needs, to even handling unexpected financial crises, every decision impacted their bottom line.

The event was made possible thanks to incredible community support. Volunteers included representatives from local businesses, banks, insurance agencies, county offices, and extension personnel from Pike, Howard, Sevier, and Montgomery counties. These volunteers guided students through each station, helping them think critically about their options while keeping their financial situation in mind.

“Get Real – Here’s the Deal” provided a valuable opportunity for students to build financial awareness, responsibility, and confidence as they prepare for their futures. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success!

Here at the EHC Spring Workshop with Pike County EHC members. What a great time for learning and connecting with others from across the state. If you would like to join an existing club or start a new club, call 870-285-2161.

It’s that time of the year when our minds turn to gardens and food preservation. FCS agents and EHC members are meeting today at the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Office to learn about judging home preserved foods. Here’s a link to learn more about what fair judges are looking for when looking at those beautiful jars from the FSEN (Food Safety Extension Nerwork). https://foodsafety.extension.org/home-food-preservation/judging-home-preserved-foods-at-the-fair/