The Coleman 6th-Grade Campus in Splendora ISD has launched an innovative program called the City of Chance, giving sixth graders a hands-on experience in financial literacy and real-world responsibility.
Led by teacher Erin Lachance, the program transforms students into “citizens” of their own society, where they are guided by a Social Contract that emphasizes responsibility and accountability.
Each day begins with a check-in led by Mayor Meche, where students take attendance, clock in, and prepare for their jobs. Roles include attorney, judge, police officer, nurse, and technician. Students earn hourly pay, Paid Time Off (PTO), and bonuses for good citizenship.
Just like in the real world, citizens must balance income with expenses. They pay taxes, health insurance, and rent while also managing deductions such as student loans and attorney fees. Tardiness or absences reduce both pay and PTO, reinforcing the importance of responsibility.
Daily lessons highlight financial concepts such as salary vs. hourly pay, reviewing paychecks, saving, retirement planning, credit, stock market basics, and job skills.
In the Court of Chance, students may be cited for infractions such as trespassing or disturbing the peace. They must hire an attorney, attend court, and, if fined, pay penalties through the banker. These costs appear on their weekly expense sheets, underscoring the real price of poor decisions.
Through jobs, paychecks, expenses, and even courtroom consequences, students gain a deeper understanding of how financial and personal choices shape adult life. Splendora ISD leaders say the City of Chance is more than a classroom exercise—it’s a community designed to prepare students to become responsible, informed citizens of the future.
What a great idea. Now to have similar classes in surrounding areas, such as Cleveland.
Hi I am the kid with blonde hair
And I am proud of myself for this
I like this, a lot.
I love this. Keep up the good work, keep up the good work, and keep preparing our kids for the real world. Thank you, Splendora ISD.
WOW Eli’s aunt here super proud of him !!! Good job Eli love you !
This is an amazing project and so proud that my son Eli Aparicio is a part of this.