Student-Run Credit Union Opens at Greenville High Academy
Greenville Federal Credit Union and Greenville Senior High Academy held a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the opening of the first student-run branch called The Branch at Greenville High.
The initiative brings real-world financial literacy and education into the school and allows students enrolled in the school’s Academy of Law, Finance, and Business to gain real-life experience and preparation both for college and future careers.
“This is the perfect plan and perfect example of a community and corporate partnership and of our work in collaboration with schools and the community to provide real-world experiences for our soon-to-be graduates,” said Superintendent W. Burke Royster. “We are not only developing the knowledge for them to be competitive in the real world, but they are also developing the skills and characteristics that will make them college and career ready.”
“We are excited to present this unique partnership with Greenville High and the district. It’s a very proud moment for everyone involved,” said Paul Hughes, credit union President. “We believe that financial literacy and personal financial management are important life skills that will benefit these students well into their futures.”
Greenville High and the credit union selected 10 students who work alongside a teacher leading the student-run branch. The students received in-depth training during the summer that prepared them for operating The Branch at Greenville High. Students are not only handling cash and opening new accounts, but also implementing growth strategies through a marketing plan developed by the students.
Kyndra Holmes, a junior and a member of the marketing team for The Branch, said, “I’m glad that I can teach my peers about financial literacy. We’re teaching students how to manage their money and teaching them to save money to accomplish their goals. Our marketing plan includes word of mouth and we make commercial skits that air on GTV. Our most recent skit is called Take a Tour, Take a Bite where we give free doughnuts to students if they come in and take a tour.”
The student-run branch is not open to the general public. Students, faculty and staff have daily access to the financial services provided by The Branch at Greenville High.