Preparing students for life after high school requires more than academic preparation. It also means equipping them with the financial knowledge and decision-making skills needed to navigate adulthood with confidence.
That’s why KR Scholars, through its college readiness initiative The HBCU Bridge Program, is partnering with Truist to bring the Truist Life, Money, and Choices™ financial literacy simulation to students at John Marshall High School in Richmond, Virginia.
On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, approximately 60 students will participate in this hands-on experience designed to help them understand how everyday financial decisions shape long-term financial stability.
A Hands-On Financial Literacy Experience
The Truist Life, Money, and Choices™ simulation is an immersive, scenario-based financial education experience that introduces students to real-world financial responsibilities.
During the simulation, students will receive individualized financial profiles and rotate through interactive stations that represent real-life expenses and financial decisions.
By practicing these decisions in a supportive environment, students gain valuable insight into how financial choices impact their long-term wellbeing.
Why Financial Literacy Matters for High School Students
Research highlights the importance of early financial education. National studies show that only about 30% of U.S. youth demonstrate basic financial literacy, and many young adults report feeling unprepared to manage money, credit, and long-term financial planning.
Early exposure to financial education can make a significant difference. Studies show that students who receive financial literacy education early are more likely to develop:
Stronger saving habits
Healthier credit behaviors
Greater long-term financial stability
Programs like Life, Money, and Choices™ are especially impactful during the high school years, when students are beginning to prepare for college, careers, and independent financial decision-making.
A Partnership Focused on Student Opportunity
The partnership between KR Scholars and Truist reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to financial education and preparing students for life beyond high school.
Throughout the simulation, Truist volunteers will guide students through the experience, helping them think critically about budgeting, financial trade-offs, and long-term financial planning.
“We are excited to partner with Truist to bring this hands-on financial literacy experience to John Marshall High School,” said Kristen Johnson, Co-Founder of KR Scholars. “This simulation allows students to practice real-world decision-making in a supportive environment before stepping into adulthood.”
“At Truist, we believe financial education is a key driver of opportunity. Life, Money, and Choices™ equips students with the knowledge and confidence to navigate their financial futures,” said a Truist representative.
The HBCU Bridge Program: Preparing Students for College and Careers
The event is part of The HBCU Bridge Program, KR Scholars’ flagship college and career readiness initiative designed to prepare high school students for postsecondary success.
Through workshops, college exposure opportunities, mentorship, and career exploration experiences, The HBCU Bridge Program helps students explore pathways to higher education—particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—while building the skills needed for long-term success.
By combining college readiness with financial education, programs like this help ensure students are prepared not only to enroll in college, but also to thrive throughout their academic and professional journeys.
Event Details
Event: Truist Life, Money, and Choices™ Financial Literacy Simulation
Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: John Marshall High School, Richmond, VA
Participants: Approximately 60 high school students
This interactive event will allow students to actively engage in real-world financial scenarios while learning directly from financial professionals.
Building Financial Confidence for the Next Generation
At KR Scholars, we believe that financial literacy is a powerful tool for long-term success. When students understand how to manage money, make informed financial decisions, and plan for the future, they gain the confidence needed to navigate college, careers, and adulthood.
Through partnerships with organizations like Truist, KR Scholars continues to expand opportunities that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to build brighter futures.
To learn more about KR Scholars and The HBCU Bridge Program, visit www.krscholars.com.