Crook County School District launches new Student Personal Finance & Investing Club

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- The Crook County School District has launched a new Student Personal Finance & Investing Club for students in Prineville, Ore. The program is funded through a grant and community partnership with Mid Oregon Credit Union.

The club is designed to give students in the rural community direct access to local financial professionals and practical learning experiences. The program expands upon concepts taught in the school district's required personal finance course, offering interactive projects and career exploration beyond the standard classroom curriculum.

In its first year, the club aims to serve between 20 and 30 students. Meetings will include hands-on activities, simulations, student projects, guest speakers and discussions with local business figures. Covered topics will include investing, budgeting, credit, taxes, entrepreneurship, financial aid and careers in the financial sector.

Crook County School District Superintendent Joel Hoff emphasized the importance of preparing students for financial management later in life. “Our schools have a responsibility to prepare students for the financial decisions and opportunities they will encounter throughout their lives,” Hoff said. “This club builds on the financial literacy foundation we already provide and gives students the chance to go deeper, explore their interests and connect with real-world professionals. We are grateful to Mid Oregon Credit Union for investing in our students and our community.”

Kevin Cole, president and CEO of Mid Oregon Credit Union, said supporting youth education is central to the organization's mission. “Building financial literacy among young people is a key commitment Mid Oregon makes to the communities we serve,” Cole said. “We are honored to partner with Crook County Schools to help fulfill this commitment.”

The club will meet monthly throughout the school year as the district seeks to develop long-term partnerships with local businesses, financial institutions and area professionals.