As Banks Open In Schools, A Chance For Students To Learn To Save

NPR
Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Hundreds of student-run bank branches and credit unions are opening in schools across the U.S. The school systems hope the branches will help student employees build up their resumes and make money while building financial literacy and providing families access to safe credit. Union Bank has three student-run branches in California, all located in low-income neighborhoods. The bank spends up to $200,000 to build each branch, staffs them with managers and pays student employees stipends and scholarships. Union views the branches as part of their community service and doesn't expect them to make money. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency is now considering a special designation for school branches, which would pave the way for more.