First Metro Bank Falcon Branch introduces students to money management

FLORENCE, Ala. — The Florence Falcon branch of First Metro Bank is continuing its operations at Florence High School for the 2026–2027 school year.

Every day during 4th period, students work in the bank. From taking change to giving a deposit, students have real-world access to banking. The bank is a real, functioning bank for student and faculty access.

"The bank itself is real money — real accounts," FHS Business Management Teacher Shellie Ballard-Thomas said. "Students and faculty can open an account. They can make a withdrawal — a deposit from their First Metro account. If they do not have an account, they can exchange money."

Students can cash checks up to $50, and faculty can cash checks up to $100. Students 15 years or older can open a savings account in their own name, and students 18 and older can open checking and savings accounts.

"The Falcon Branch is run by student tellers," Ballard-Thomas said. "We have three that are seniors. One is serving his second year as the head teller and third year as a student teller. For them to be able to be student tellers, they have to have taken two of my business classes and applied to be a student teller, and then go through some training."

The bank is a great place for students to learn how to open accounts and manage their money. For students interested in banking, First Metro Bank offers Launch Program placements to gain more experience working in a bank.

This week, the Falcon Branch is sponsoring a T-shirt giveaway for the first three students who complete a transaction. Students who open an account may also receive a shirt, while supplies last.

By Evie Snyder