Money bus rolls into Lafayette

LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Students from one local elementary school had a unique opportunity to practice their money management skills.

Fifth grade students from Amelia Earhart Elementary School received paychecks, opened bank accounts, and hopped aboard the Money Bus.

Once on the bus, students used debit cards to play games, purchase items, and even make charitable donations.

The classroom on wheels was designed by Networks Financial Institute at Indiana State University to teach students how to make tough decisions about managing money.

Fifth grade teacher Nadine Roush said the lessons come at a very important time.

"These children are hearing so much on television and in the news about the economy about the economic stimulus bill. Some of them are worried about their parents being able to keep their jobs. It's a real issue for children as well as parents so I think this is a very timely unit for our kids," said Roush.

An online classroom version of the Money Bus is scheduled to launch nationally later this year.