RealityEX Brings Hands-On Financial and Career Exploration to 1,500 Local Students

More than 1,500 ninth-grade students from Decatur City Schools, Morgan County Schools and Hartselle City Schools participated in RealityEX, a four-day interactive learning experience held November 18–21 at Ingalls Harbor Pavilion. Designed to equip students with real-world skills that extend beyond the classroom, RealityEX combined practical financial education with career exploration in an engaging, hands-on format.

The Chamber partnered to help bring two powerful learning experiences under one roof. Through Redstone Federal Credit Union’s Reality Fair, students navigated real-life budgeting, monthly expenses and financial decision-making based on assigned careers and lifestyles. They also participated in Reach and Teach’s ImaginEX program, which introduced them to a wide range of careers in the entertainment industry, from production and design to marketing and technology.

By experiencing both financial responsibility and career discovery in a single setting, students gained a deeper understanding of the choices and opportunities that lie ahead. The Chamber was proud to support this initiative, recognizing its value in preparing students for future success and strengthening our region’s future workforce.

The Chamber extends its appreciation to Redstone Federal Credit Union, Reach and Teach, participating school systems, volunteers, and community partners who helped make RealityEX possible.