SPS, SAAB and banks partner on financial literacy programming

Springfield Public Schools is partnering with the Student African American Brotherhood and five banks on a new slate of financial literacy programming.

Called Banking on SAAB/SPS, the financial literacy program offers six experiences over the course of the school year to be completed by students from all five SPS high schools and Launch Virtual Learning, according to a news release. The elective programming is new for the 2023-24 academic year.

SAAB/SPS member participants will learn about taxes, creating a budget, interest, insurance to protect against financial risk and investment instruments. A March 22 event is planned for students to work alongside banking industry professionals.

“Banking on SAAB/SPS is an example of the power of strategic, impactful community partners,” SPS Superintendent Grenita Lathan said in the release. “When our business leaders invest in our students with skills and mentorship, they support success-ready students to make positive choices long after high school."

The financial institutions participating are Arvest Bank, Central Bank of the Ozarks, Commerce Bank, Great Southern Bank and Simmons Bank. Students also are slated to visit the banks over the course of five half-day sessions.