Silver Creek Central School celebrated an exciting new opportunity for students and staff with the grand opening of the Black Knight Branch of Inner Lakes Credit Union, located in the high school’s Math/Technology Wing. Dr. Ralston had the honor of officially cutting the ribbon, marking the beginning of a partnership designed to make banking more accessible and financial education more meaningful for the Silver Creek school community.

The idea originated with Rachel Castiglia and her Financial Management class, who envisioned bringing banking directly to Silver Creek students and staff. With New York State’s financial literacy education requirements emphasizing the importance of financial knowledge at every grade level, Castiglia saw an opportunity to bring those lessons to life by making banking convenient, engaging, and accessible right on campus.

The goal is to help students develop positive financial habits early in life, learn the value of saving, and begin working toward their personal financial goals. Whether saving for a yearbook, a senior trip, a school dance, a first car, or another important milestone, students can begin building the skills and confidence they need to make informed financial decisions.

The Black Knight Branch isn’t just for students! Silver Creek staff members can take advantage of the convenient on-site banking services, explore available savings options, open new accounts, and get assistance with their banking needs without leaving campus.

Inner Lakes Credit Union enthusiastically embraced the vision, helping turn the classroom idea into reality. Special recognition goes to Shara Post, Special Projects Assistant, whose hard work and dedication helped bring this exciting initiative to life. The school also welcomes Sierra Pecoraro, who will staff the Black Knight Branch and assist students and staff with their banking needs.

Also in attendance were Charley Boedo, current freshman; Emily Racinowski, Administrative Executive Assistant to the Superintendent; Carl Swan, CEO of Inner Lakes FCU; and Karen Swanson, Member Services Manager.

Visit the Black Knight Branch!

Location: High School Math/Technology Wing
Days: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Hours: 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Branch Manager: Sierra Pecoraro

Students and staff are encouraged to stop by to ask questions, explore account options, and discover how easy it can be to start saving. Current account holders and those interested in opening a new account are welcome!

This partnership represents an exciting step toward connecting classroom learning with real-world financial skills, empowering students to take ownership of their financial futures.

Banking Made Easy — Right Here at School!

Building smart money habits today for a stronger financial future tomorrow.