MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. -- Big Shoulders Fund, a charity organization based out of Chicago, announced a group of 50 eighth graders in Indiana will participate in their Stock Market Program, including students in Michigan City.

Officials say students will learn about investing and financial markets in the hands-on program where classes get $3,000 to invest and try to beat the market.

Students will earn a two percent management fee for their work.

The participants will also have the chance to win several prizes while competing with other students and across schools.

Officials say each student will manage their own investment portfolio throughout the school year.

Classes whose portfolios grow the most will win cash prizes.

Officials add whichever student has grown their stock the most will get an iPad or Kindle Fire. 

Classes are taught by volunteer financial services professionals.

The Big Shoulders Fund Stock Market Program is currently taught in 61 schools between Illinois and Indiana.

Indiana schools participating in the program include:

• St. Mary Catholic Community School in Crown Point
• St. John the Baptist Catholic School in Whiting
• Notre Dame Catholic School in Michigan City

You can learn more about the Big Shoulders Fund Stock Market Program on their website.