Next-Gen Lifeskills Builds Skills for the Future

By: Azariah Christy

The New-Gen Life Skills program teaches important life skills through hands-on experiences, including a visit to Ameri-Town for seniors, Oct. 21. The experience gave students an opportunity to learn about community, interact with others and practice skills they can use in everyday life.

Ameri-Town provided an opportunity for seniors to better understand the importance of managing life as an adult. Activities like balancing a check book and making smart financial decisions allowed students to build communication skills, develop confidence and learn the value of these skills .

“I think the Nex-Gen Life Skills helped, but there were some things that were questionable, especially when we went through terms that we learned back in finance class. We actually got to do things that were related to life which I thought was beneficial,” senior Chloe Jacobs said.

Through the Life Skills program, students participated in activities designed to prepare them for life beyond the classroom. Students learned how to make decisions that match their life plan that are financially smart and will not put them over their monthly income.

“Several years ago, we attended the Life Skills activity in their inaugural year. I thought the day was beneficial for seniors, but some areas needed to be improved. We did not attend last year, but decided to revisit the experience this year,” senior class sponsor Robin Sides said. “I felt like the experience gave the students a realistic view of what life after high school is like. They typically don’t understand the costs of items like insurance, rent and items their parents are currently paying for. The experience is an eye-opener for most,”  Sides said.