Greenville, SC – Greenville Federal Credit Union and Greenville Senior High School announce plans to launch a student-run credit union branch inside the high school during the 2016-2017 school year. This 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 for both college and future careers. Students will earn course credit and gain hands on experience as they manage and operate a fully functioning Greenville Federal Credit Union branch.
“This unique partnership between our credit union, Greenville County Schools and Greenville High further solidifies our commitment to our founding organization and our core values,” 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, and we are thrilled to launch this exciting program in the Fall.”
This initiative is a first for Greenville County Schools. Greenville Senior High School and the credit union have interviewed and selected 10 students who will work along-side a teacher leading the student-run branch. The students will receive in-depth training during the summer to prepare them for operating The Branch at Greenville High. At the completion of the summer-long training, students will be capable of not only handling cash and opening new accounts, but also implementing growth strategies through a marketing plan developed by the students.
“At Greenville Senior High School we seek to provide students with authentic experiences in their classrooms and in our community so that they are receiving more than just a high school diploma. Through this generous partnership with Greenville Federal Credit Union to establish The Branch at Greenville High, we are able to provide the most authentic training experience available. The opportunity for our students to be trained as credit union employees and to gain real-world preparation in a professional environment is priceless,” said Greenville Senior High School Principal, Jason Warren. “With the operation of The Branch during the school day, our entire student body will have an opportunity to learn and practice personal financial management skills. This is a perfect example of a wonderful opportunity for students that could not exist without the support of a business partner like Greenville Federal Credit Union.
The Branch at Greenville High will open in August 2016 with a grand opening celebration in mid-September.
About Greenville Senior High School
Greenville High School was established in 1888 and has a rich tradition of successful programs and outstanding students who have made significant contributions to the local and world community. The school’s mission is to foster excellence by empowering students to become critical thinkers, productive citizens, and lifelong learners.