LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 15, 2024) – The Academies of Central Arkansas announced today the opening of a student-led branch, operated by Telcoe Federal Credit Union at Maumelle High School. Scholars in the Telcoe Federal Credit Union Academy of Business and Service at Maumelle High School will gain hands-on, experiential learning as a result of this investment. Today’s official opening of the “Hornet Branch” follows the partnership announcement made between Telcoe, Maumelle High, and the Pulaski County Special School District back in May 2023 as part of the Academies of Central Arkansas.
The opening of the Maumelle High branch, and ongoing training and operational support, comes in addition to the commitment that Telcoe has already made to provide students with enhanced learning opportunities throughout their high school years. Telcoe also committed to provide guest speakers for students in all grades, participate in the annual career expo event, host students and teachers on industry field trips, and provide job shadowing and internship opportunities for Maumelle students.
Michele Beasley, Senior Vice President at Telcoe Federal Credit Union said, “We are thrilled to partner with Maumelle High to launch our student-led branch. This initiative reflects our commitment to empowering young people with practical financial skills and real-world experience. We believe this collaboration will not only benefit the students but also enrich our community as a whole.”
The Academies of Central Arkansas is a joint initiative of the four public school districts across Pulaski County and the regional business community. In 2019, the Jacksonville North Pulaski, Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pulaski County Special School Districts, together with the five chambers of commerce in Pulaski County and business and civic leaders, began implementing high school academies.
"We are excited to see the launch of the Telcoe Academy of Business and Service at Maumelle High, where students will gain invaluable real-world experience by operating their own school-based credit union," said Jay Chesshir, President & CEO of the Little Rock Regional Chamber. "This innovative initiative is a game changer, offering students hands-on learning opportunities that will set them up for success in life along with potential future careers. We thank Telcoe Federal Credit Union for their strong commitment to our students and the community."
"Having the opportunity to live the experience through the opening of a Telcoe FCU branch at Maumelle High provides unparalleled opportunities for our students and Telcoe," said Dr. Charles McNulty, superintendent of PCSSD. "This partnership will bring great opportunity to our professional staff, students and families as they advance our high school academies and pathways and venture on to their future endeavors."
Reihanna Chatmon, a Maumelle High junior, interned at Telcoe Federal Credit Union this summer and gained invaluable experience, “The welcoming environment and excellent member service at Telcoe Federal Credit Union created a supportive space where I could learn and grow, providing an incredible first job experience.”
While implementation of the Academies of Central Arkansas will take several years to fully build out, it’s powerful partnerships like this that will take our transformation to the next level. Once fully implemented, this educational approach will help transform high schools for all students within the four school districts. The Little Rock Regional Chamber is still actively recruiting business partners for all Academy high schools. Businesses interested in getting more information can reach out to the chamber directly or visit www.academiesofcentralarkansas.org.
About Academies of Central Arkansas
The Academies of Central Arkansas is an initiative of the Little Rock Regional Chamber and utilizes the Academies model of teaching and learning. It is being implemented wall-to-wall within all four public school districts in Pulaski County. The model transforms the public high school experience by blending core academics with career and technical education. Students see relevance and better engage with their math, science, English, and social studies when taught through the lens of an occupation or industry theme that interests them. This model connects students’ learning with real world applications, preparing them not only for college, but for career and life. For more info visit www.academiesofcentralarkansas.org.
About Telcoe Federal Credit Union
Telcoe Federal Credit Union, one of the country’s healthiest credit unions, is a full-service, not-for-profit financial institution. Founded in 1950 here in Little Rock, Telcoe has $452 million in total assets, serves more than 22,000 members, and has 4 full-service branches throughout Arkansas: Downtown Little Rock, West Little Rock, Sherwood, and Russellville. Members also have access to services at more than 300,000 surcharge-free ATMs located across the country. Telcoe offers financial services to individuals and families in Arkansas. Insured by NCUA. Visit www.telcoe.com to learn more.
About Maumelle High School
Maumelle High School has been serving students in grades 9 – 12 on its expansive campus since 2011. Maumelle is proud to serve the students in the city of Maumelle and surrounding areas. As the city continues to grow, so does our school and the amazing opportunities available to the Hornet family.
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