(TOPEKA, Kan.) - Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Jenkins, CPA is partnering with the Educational Credit Union to help students at Jay Shideler Elementary School not only learn how to save money, but give them the opportunity to actually save it by participating in the "Save@School" program. The "Save@School" program will introduce students to the concepts of money management by having participating students open savings accounts and make deposits on scheduled days at school.
"Jay Shideler Elementary is the first school in Topeka to participate in the Save at School program," said Treasurer Jenkins. "It is crucial that we teach young people that they are primarily responsible for their financial future."
During a school assembly on Monday, Nov. 1 at 10 a.m., Treasurer Jenkins spoke with students about the importance of money management and being responsible for their finances. Jenkins, a CPA and a parent with an interest in the economic education of all Kansans, told the students that it is never too early to start saving money.
"We want the students to leave class with more than a grade," Jenkins said. "We want them to walk away with a significant savings account and an understanding of money management."
Fifth grade students at Jay Shideler will open savings accounts at the school on Nov. 5 with assistance from Educational Credit Union (ECU) staff. Credit union employees will accept saving account deposits on the first and third Friday of each month until the summer break. Student will be given the opportunity to tour the Educational Credit Union.
"This program is a perfect fit for the credit union and our continuing effort to help kids and schools in Topeka," said Gavin Wittman, ECU President and CEO. "Teaching our children money management is one of the most valuable set of skills they will use in their adult life."
Educational Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative with over 14,500 members and five Topeka locations. ECU was founded by local teachers in 1939 and has remained steadfast in supporting local education and student endeavors over the past 65 years.
Jenkins, a former State Representative and Senator from Topeka, was elected Treasurer on Nov. 5, 2002. She is a Certified Public Accountant and former small business owner. Since being sworn into office in January 2003, Jenkins has expanded investment options in Learning Quest, initiated multiple financial literacy programs, and eliminated the reliance on state general fund dollars to operate the office.
