Money Basics (Grades 6–8)

Before your teen gets a first paycheck, a debit card, or a credit offer in the mail, they can learn how all of it actually works. The Vault Keepers Academy is the money class most of us wish we'd had. Guided by the Archivist of Mosswood, your student works through 10 operations over two weeks: reading a real paycheck (gross vs. net, taxes, FICA), budgeting with the 50/30/20 rule, the difference between simple and compound interest, how credit scores are built, investing and the Rule of 72, what insurance is for, and how to recognize scams and identity theft — finishing with a complete personal financial plan. The math is genuine middle-school math: percentages, interest, and multi-step reasoning, all applied to decisions they'll actually face. Printable and independent-friendly, with everything a parent needs to grade it. Inside: - 10 operations across 2 weeks, building to a capstone financial plan - Paychecks, budgeting, credit, investing, insurance, and fraud defense - An assessment rubric, teacher notes, and a full answer key - A Certified Vault Keeper certificate ESA-eligible — pay with your ESA where your program covers curriculum.