WESTPORT–Just before spring break, the Staples High School Class of 2026 spent a day participating in “Invest in Yourself,” a comprehensive program designed to help them build practical skills as they prepare for life after high school.

The program included a Financial Reality Fair and a series of health and wellness workshops.

Held in the Staples gym, cafeteria, library and several classroom spaces, the program started in 2019 and has been held every year except the Covid-19 year of 2020.

Christine Wanner, coordinator of health and physical education at Staples, said a favorite, without surveying students, was the financial fair, which was new and a “really great experience” for them.

Held in partnership with Connecticut’s Credit Unions, the Financial Reality Fair allowed students to simulate personal budgets based on chosen career paths and to project net salaries.

At booths staffed by PTA and credit union volunteers, seniors made spending decisions about housing, transportation, utilities, and other everyday expenses before reviewing their financial choices with financial professionals.

The program also included several health and wellness sessions focused on safety, responsibility, and informed decision-making. There was a sexual violence prevention program, “Know Before You Go,” presented by the Rowan Center of Norwalk. Students also viewed “If They Had Known,” a documentary about the dangers of mixing alcohol and prescription drugs.

Sessions were followed by guided conversations with the Westport Police Department, Positive Directions, and Staples High School mental health professionals. To round out the day, Chartwells, the district’s food service provider, presented “Nutrition 101,” offering guidance for maintaining a healthy diet while living away from home.

Together, Wanner said the experiences gave students a stronger understanding of the financial, physical, and emotional aspects of independent living. By combining real-world budgeting with health and wellness education, the program reinforced the importance of planning, asking questions, and making responsible choices, she added.

“‘Invest in Yourself’ is a powerful and meaningful experience that helps bridge the gap between high school and the real world,” said Stafford Thomas, Jr., Staples High School Principal. “By bringing together financial literacy and essential health education, we are giving our seniors practical tools and greater confidence as they prepare for their next chapter.”

“We want our seniors to leave Staples with both confidence and perspective,” added Wanner,  “‘Invest in Yourself’ helps students think carefully about the choices they will face and the habits that will help them thrive.”