We have been using an economy system in the classroom for a couple of months.  Today, we took the average starting teacher's salary, made a budget, and had an eye-opening discussion about money.  It became clear to the students that money management can be difficult and "extras" may need to be cut.  

Fast forward to evening when I ran into a student at the grocery store.

Emmett:  Hey!  Mrs. B!!!!  MRS. BEEEE!!!

Mrs. B:  Hi, Emmett!  How are you?

Emmett:  Fine.  I saw you using coupons like we talked about!

Mrs. B:  Yes. (holding out my receipt)  And look at what I saved.

Emmett:  Twenty-seven dollars!  That's good.  (lightbulb)  Hey, now you can pay your cable bill!