Redstone Federal CU opens branch inside Blackman High

Blackman High School this week opened its first student-run credit union branch in partnership with Redstone Federal Credit Union.

Student tellers take deposits, cash checks, handle cash withdrawals, and make money transfers. While gaining real-life work experience, students also increase their financial literacy and become eligible for a college scholarship from Redstone. There are 10 student tellers.

Another benefit of Blackman’s relationship with Redstone is the specially designed debit card that generates money for the school each time it is used. Redstone members can request the Blackman Blaze debit card at their branch.

“We are thrilled to open our first student-run branch in Rutherford County and are excited to partner with the Blackman School family to help students understand banking, money management and how to build a solid financial future,’’ said Mike Panesi, Redstone’s Vice President, Tennessee Market.

Panesi credits Blackman Principal Dr. Leisa Justus and the leadership of Rutherford County Schools for the success of the branch opening.

“Our Rutherford County Schools’ mission is to ‘prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s opportunities.’ This partnership with Redstone does exactly that,’’ said Justus. “What a great way to integrate classroom learning with real life experience. Our students are the winners in this, and I’m so appreciative of Redstone and their forward thinking in providing this to high schools,’’ she said.

Blackman – one of Tennessee’s largest high schools — is Redstone’s fifth high school branch operated by students, with oversight from teacher advisors.