Some Hernando County students are getting a real life lesson in marketing.

The Springstead High students have big plans to improve their school but money is hard to come by these days, so the students are taking matters into their own hands and trying to raise the money themselves.

The students are learning some valuable lessons, like "money does not grow on trees" and "if you need something, go out and get it." That's what Tim Plumadore is teaching in his sports marketing class, and his students love it.

"As soon as we come in this class it's serious," said senior William Swift. "You get down to work."

"We are trying to leave our mark," said senior Skylynn Garcia.

Their assignment is to come up with a lot of cash. Not make-believe cash - real cash.

"This is pretty much like our first job," Swift said. "It's real life."

Their plan is to raise money to renovate the school gym that has been around since 1980 and needs lots of work. They also want a new football field. The upgrades will cost nearly $700,000.

"When I go home it's like, 'OK, what can we do to help?' " said Garcia. " 'What can I do to fundraise?' "

So far the students have started a Go Fund Me page. They're also in contact with the NFL about grant money, and they have much more in the works. Money is tight with the school district. They can't help so the students are on a mission.

"This isn't just a project," Swift said. "This is work, actually something that is going to affect our school and our community."

The plan is expected to take about four to five years.