Opening for the 2026–2027 School Year!
School $ense is back for the 2026–2027 school year! Royal Credit Union’s signature student-run credit union program gives students the chance to practice saving, build leadership skills, and gain real-world experience within their school.
Since 1993, Royal has partnered with schools to bring hands-on financial education directly to students. Today, 31 School $ense sites across Royal’s footprint help thousands of students strengthen their financial confidence while developing practical service and teamwork skills.
The experience begins each fall, when students apply and interview for School $ense team positions. In the Chippewa Valley, selected elementary students train at Royal Credit Union’s Corporate Center in quality service, confidentiality, and teamwork. This year, Royal welcomed 204 students to our corporate center for training. Students in extended locations receive training at their school site locations
School $ense Opening Week
School $ense sites open in mid to late October, giving students a convenient way to save at school while practicing lifelong money-management habits.
A deposit can make an even bigger difference: For every 500 deposits made at an elementary School $ense site, Royal donates $250 to the school.
About Our School $ense Programs
Elementary School Programs
At elementary sites, fourth- and/or fifth-grade students apply, interview, and train for their roles. They learn to use Royal’s computer system, protect confidential information, work as a team, and provide excellent Member service.
Sites open once a week, either in the morning or during lunch. Every deposit helps students build a consistent saving habit, and every fourth deposit earns a prize. Two prize levels encourage students to keep saving toward larger goals.
Middle School Programs
At middle school locations, students in grades six through eight help classmates and staff complete deposits and withdrawals. They also create marketing materials that build awareness of School $ense in their schools. A small giveaway with each deposit adds extra fun and motivation.
High School Programs
High school branches operate much like traditional Royal Credit Union locations. High school branches operate much like traditional Royal Credit Union locations. Students hired through in-school internship programs gain hands-on experience in teller operations, Member service, and financial education, all while earning school credit. They also work at Royal’s community branches, extending their learning into a professional setting.
This year, Royal is excited to welcome a new high school location at White Bear Lake Area High School and expand opportunities for students in another community.
Ready to Get Involved?
- If your student attends one of our partner schools and would like to participate in School $ense, you can open an account here: https://www.rcu.org/promos/school-sense-accounts
- To see a full list of School $ense site locations, visit: https://www.rcu.org/education-resources/financial-education/articles/school-$ense-partner-schools
- If your elementary student already has an account and needs a pouch, please email us at [email protected]