Students Explore Basic Economics with Help from DuPage Credit Union Volunteers

How much is something worth? It’s all relative—determined by consumer economics: want, need, and supply.

This semester, students at Manor Hill Elementary School in Lombard have been learning basic economics through PEP (Passion, Engagement, and Potential) Squad sessions, with support from DuPage Credit Union team member volunteers. During the two-hour sessions, students worked within a budget to purchase items for the school store, then collaborated to determine pricing by comparing size, quantity, popularity, and material quality.

Throughout the hands-on activity, students learned budgeting, problem-solving, compromising, and comparison shopping skills. Items purchased for the store included fidget gadgets, stuffed animals, and stress balls. Students can purchase items in the school store using their “debit card” which accumulates points throughout the school year.

“The program gives students the opportunity to take the lead, offering hands-on experiences through engaging, real-world modules, including financial education, which is such an incredibly valuable life skill,” said Michelle Rasor, DuPage Credit Union Senior Branch Operations and Training Specialist.

Supporting Financial Literacy in Our Community

Throughout 2026, we’ve remained committed to supporting financial literacy across our community. In addition to our work with Junior Achievement, we’ve partnered with local schools to help deliver budgeting and money management programs, participated in career fairs for students of all ages, and hosted events to help parents explore tools like Greenlight. These efforts reflect our ongoing focus on equipping students and families with the knowledge and resources they need to build strong financial futures.

“At DuPage Credit Union, we’re focused on helping local students and families build strong financial skills early on. We’re proud to support opportunities that introduce these concepts at a young age,” said George Caraballo, DuPage Credit Union Associate Director of Banking and Community Engagement.