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GECU opens first EPISD campus branch at Coronado
GECU unveiled its newest branch today at Coronado High School to offer students savings and checking accounts while also them teaching financial literacy.
“Opening a location inside Coronado High School is a great opportunity for students to begin their successful financial journey,” said GECU CEO and President Crystal Long. “By opening up savings and checking accounts and learning how to manage their own finances while still in high school, they can become financially independent. We’re excited to build a relationship with the school and look forward to providing financial education to students.
The new branch, tucked inside Coronado’s administration area, already employs three students who will work side by side a GECU employee. More students are expected to be hired through the district’s work study program.
The new branch is open to Coronado students, faculty and staff.
“The best part is that our students get to work in the credit union,” Coronado Principal Angela Henderson said. “We’re excited for them because they will be providing service for other students.”
Henderson also looks forward to the educational opportunities offered by GECU.
“High school is where it all begins,” Henderson said. “They are planning for college already and looking at expenses and the cost of college, so we feel like they this is going to fit right in while they are planning for their future.”
GECU’s community development department will be working with students to teach them how to handle checking and savings accounts and strengthen their awareness of financial matters before it’s too late.
“It’s so critical to learn financial skills at an early age because when they get out into the world, if they’re unprepared, they can get into big trouble – a lot of debt,” Long said.
Senior Cristina Terrazas, Coronado’s first student employee, fits right in with other GECU employees at the branch. Dressed in a blue GECU polo, Terrazas has already been trained to work with members in person and through their virtual technology.
“I really like working here,” Terrazas said. “I’ve learned a lot about banking and finance. It’s a good opportunity for me. I know it’s going to open doors for me.”
The Coronado branch is the credit union’s 21st branch in the community and second school branch. It is open for students, faculty and staff from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Among the services offered include opening checking, savings and money market accounts and certificates of deposits. Checks also can be cashed and deposited at the branch.
Watch EPISD Live coverage of this story.