This April, we had the incredible opportunity to spend two full days at South Portland Middle School, teaching Money Quest – our interactive budgeting course – to 7th-grade students. With one more day planned, we’ll soon have reached every 7th grader in the school, and we couldn’t be more excited about the enthusiasm and insight these students have shown.

Money Quest is designed to give students a taste of what life is like after school ends and the paychecks start rolling in. Each student receives a budgeting sheet and walks through real-life financial decisions – starting with a career and moving through choices in housing, transportation, food, utilities, insurance, and more. They’re encouraged to set aside 10% of their income for savings – split between emergency funds and retirement – and to factor in extras like internet, phone plans, and even entertainment and gaming.

And just like real life, there’s always the unexpected. That’s where our favorite part of the course comes in: the Curveball page. Students draw a random life event – a surprise bonus at work, a flat tire, a hospital bill, or even an unexpected refund. It’s a fun (and sometimes eye-opening) way to help them prepare for the unpredictability of life.

At the end of the course, students tally their monthly expenses and subtract them from their net income to see whether they’ve come in over or under budget. Some of the comments we’ve heard have been priceless. One student, surprised by the cost of groceries, exclaimed, “That’s what my mom spends every month? I need to go home and thank her!” Others impressed us with their curiosity about investments and strategies for growing their money – clear signs that the next generation is already thinking ahead.

We’re truly inspired by these students. Their interest, engagement, and thoughtful questions have exceeded all expectations. The future is bright!

We’re also looking forward to expanding Money Quest to include 8th-grade students – and, hopefully soon, the high school as well. At Trademark, financial education isn’t just a program – it’s a purpose. We believe in equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed, to start out strong, and to find financial peace of mind. It’s part of our greater mission: community-focused, purpose-driven, and rooted in meaningful work.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to the dedicated teachers at South Portland Middle School. Thank you for your support with this program, and more importantly, for everything you do throughout the year to support, guide, and inspire these students.

Together, we’re planting the seeds for financial wellness, confidence, and a lifetime of smart decisions.