A+ Federal Credit Union and Round Rock ISD have formed a partnership to promote financial literacy at Round Rock High School and to prepare students for the work force through a student-operated, high school branch of the credit union starting in the 2014-2015 school year.
The branch will be staffed by 3-5 student interns who will receive school credit and pay for their work. The interns will be responsible for providing onsite financial services to peers, faculty and staff members, as well as community members. A supervisor from the A+FCU Round Rock branch will oversee office operations and conduct account opening and loan processes.
“Our team at Round Rock High School works diligently to prepare students for college and the workforce,” Round Rock HS Principal Natalie Nichols said. “When we can add the component of career experience to the instruction our students receive in the classroom, it can be a special experience and opportunity for learning. I’m excited for this partnership, and what it can offer for our students.”
As part of the partnership, A+FCU will establish a scholarship program for Round Rock ISD students and provide a micro-loan fund for the entrepreneur class. Additionally, A+FCU will incur the costs associated with the finished branch area within the school and the necessary equipment for its operations.
“We are thrilled to partner with Round Rock ISD in opening its first high school branch,” A+FCU CEO Kerry A.S. Parker said. “By working together, we will help improve the financial literacy of tomorrow’s leaders. More than ever, it’s important to have an understanding of smart money management. This high school branch will give students the tools they need to prepare themselves for the future.”
Because it will be open to the public and with its proximity to elementary and middle schools, the branch will also provide the ultimate convenience for Round Rock families, students and teachers, Parker said.
Founded 65 years ago by Austin area educators, A+FCU is committed to ensuring financial success for students. The new RRHS branch will be the credit union’s fourth high school branch in Central Texas. Others include San Marcos, Connally and Hendrickson high schools. A+FCU also partners with over 40 elementary and middle schools in Central Texas to provide hands-on experience with managing money through its Green Apple Savings Program.
The Round Rock community will celebrate the branch’s grand opening this fall along with the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony involving A+FCU, Round Rock ISD and RRHS staff and students.
