Press
Celebrating RRHS Branch
AUSTIN, TX (September 16, 2014) — With mascots dancing, cheerleaders cheering and the Dragon drumline roaring, A+ Federal Credit Union, the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce and Round Rock High School cut the ribbon celebrating the opening of the credit union’s newest branch on September 12.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with A+ Federal Credit Union because this program brings relevant learning into our school,” RRHS Principal Natalie Nichols said. “This program was years in the making as a result of several passionate educators, including one of our career and technology education teachers Peggy Mica, and education advocates from our community and the credit union. I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making this a reality for our students.”
The A+FCU branch is located in the new 1200 building at RRHS that now serves as the school’s front at 201 Deep Wood Drive. The facility offers its own separate entrance from the public to utilize, as well as a special counter for students and staff at the high school.
“We are pleased to partner with RRISD in opening a student-run branch at Round Rock High School,” A+FCU CEO Kerry A. S. Parker said. “With roots in education, our goal is to improve students’ financial literacy and money management skills through a hands-on learning environment that will enable them to become financially responsible adults. We are excited to work with the RRHS students, staff and community. The RRHS students have embraced the new credit union by designing the RRHS Dragon debit card and choosing student t-shirts, and will help guide the direction of the branch.”
The branch employs three high school interns from RRHS, who will receive school credit and pay for their work. The interns are 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 oversees office operations and conduct account opening and loan processes.
As part of the partnership, A+FCU will establish a scholarship program for RRISD students and provide a microloan fund for the entrepreneur class. Additionally, A+FCU has incurred the costs associated with the finished branch area within the school and the necessary equipment for its operations.
“When a community invests in its public education, the returns on that investment can be tremendous,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steve Flores said. “This partnership with A+ Federal Credit Union transcends financial contributions because it brings valuable learning to Round Rock High School’s students. The credit union is to be commended for their outstanding contribution to public education in Round Rock ISD, setting a high standard for community school partnerships.”
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.