Long before “financial literacy” became a buzzword, Wilson Bank & Trust (WBT) was preparing the next generation with practical, lifelong money skills. The bank’s School Banking program began in 2001 at Sam Houston Elementary in Lebanon with a simple idea: bring banking directly to the classroom and teach students how to save from the start.
That single partnership sparked a movement. Today, the School Bank program operates in more than 60 schools across the region, serving thousands of students who’ve collectively saved millions over the past two decades.
“To us, being a community bank isn’t just a business model — it’s a responsibility,” says Amelia Vance, Chief Experience Officer. “When we invest in the knowledge and confidence of our neighbors, we’re investing in the future of our children.”
A Banking Experience Tailored for Young Savers
At the core of the program is the Youth Saver account — a simple, kid-friendly tool paired with face-to-face interaction. WBT’s “School Bankers” visit schools regularly to collect deposits and coach students on money basics like setting savings goals and building consistent habits.
To keep kids engaged, the program includes prizes for regular deposits and fun savings milestones. But the real value is in the confidence students gain with each transaction. “It’s more than opening a savings account — it’s showing them they’re capable of making smart choices,” Vance says.
Digital Tools Meet Real-World Lessons
WBT doesn’t stop at school visits. Their Digital Financial Literacy Library, powered by Banzai™, offers free online tools for all ages — from games and calculators to bite-sized articles designed for real-world application.
And now, with the launch of a co-branded Greenlight app experience, families can continue learning at home. Greenlight equips parents with tools to assign chores, set spending limits, and teach budgeting — all through a secure app and kid-friendly debit card.
“It’s the perfect next step for School Bank graduates,” says Vance. “It bridges classroom lessons with everyday life.”
Starting Young, Growing Strong
WBT believes it’s never too early to talk about money. “From an early age, we’ve talked openly with our boys about saving for vacations, the importance of generosity, and how credit works,” Vance shares. “Now, with our granddaughters, it’s sometimes as simple as helping a two-year-old choose one toy instead of two. These small choices shape how kids value money.”
Parents don’t have to do it alone. WBT offers the tools, support, and hands-on experiences that empower families to raise financially confident kids.
More Than Banking — A Community Legacy
WBT’s School Bank program has made an impact far beyond student account balances. Some former participants are now customers, business owners — even bank employees. Others invite their childhood “bankers” to graduations and weddings.
Whether presenting in classrooms, partnering with nonprofits, or hosting community workshops, WBT continues to show up — offering financial guidance for every stage of life.
In preparation for this school year, WBT is staying busy training new School Bankers, refreshing rewards, and finalizing the launch its Greenlight partnership across all markets, slated to go live in August!
Financial Life Skills Start Here
To learn more about Wilson Bank & Trust’s youth programs, visit wilsonbank.com or follow along on social media. Whether you’re saving for college, teaching your child about allowance, or just starting the conversation, WBT is here for you — one child, one family, one financial step at a time.
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It’s more than opening a savings account — it’s showing students they’re capable of making smart choices and building habits that will empower them for life.” — Amelia Vance, Chief Experience Officer, WBT