During the first and second weeks of February 2026, Anchorage Junior Academy middle school students in Anchorage, Alaska, participated in a Dave Ramsey Financial Peace Kids class.
Kristine Bunnell, Dave Ramsey Financial Peace coordinator at Hillside O’Malley Adventist Church, taught the six‑lesson course based on a set of books published by Ramsey Solutions. Ramsey’s Financial Peace teachings lean heavily on scripture and common-sense decision-making.
In the classroom, students learned biblical advice on handling debt, helping others and understanding the lifelong value of planning and budgeting, with an emphasis on managing money according to God’s plan. Throughout the experience, they were rewarded for their “work,” including class participation and at‑home family engagement. Altogether, each student received $9.75 to either save, spend or give as part of hands‑on learning in both school and home settings.
The curriculum also required students to independently create a monthly budget using Ramsey’s Quick Start Budget Sheet. Students then practiced this practical, real-world skill with their families at home. Throughout the process, teachers and families prayed for students as they learned about money, recognized God’s blessings and considered His will for their lives. By learning skills such as budgeting and financial planning, students were encouraged to share with their parents the peace that comes from working with God in financial matters.
Bunnell teaches the Ramsey Financial Peace University class annually at Hillside O’Malley Church. This year marked the second time AJA students have participated in the middle school version of the program.
