Pioneer Bank Donates Books to Local 2nd Grade Classrooms in Recognition of Financial Literacy Month

In honor of Financial Literacy Month this April, Pioneer Bank is excited to support the next generation of financially savvy students by donating copies of Ella the Banker and Ella the Banker Let Us Save both written by Shamim Okolloh & Liam Sprinkle, to every 2nd grade classroom in the areas it serves. This effort is part of Pioneer Bank’s Bright Project; the bank’s community impact initiative focused on making a positive difference in the communities it serves.

“Our goal is to make learning about money fun and accessible from a young age,” said David Krause, CEO. “By donating these books, we hope to spark curiosity, promote financial literacy, and empower students to feel confident in their money skills.”
The donation will reach elementary schools across multiple communities, including:

• Mankato & North Mankato: Bridges, Franklin, Hoover, Jefferson, Kennedy, Monroe, Roosevelt, Rose Parks, Washington, Eagle Lake, Mankato Loyola, Mount Olive, Risen Savior Lutheran School, Immanuel Lutheran School, and Concordia Classical Academy

• St. Peter: North Elementary, John Ireland, and St. Peter Lutheran School

• Mapleton: Maple River Elementary

• Madelia: Madelia Elementary and St. Mary’s Catholic Elementary

• St. James: Northside Elementary and St. Paul’s Lutheran School

• Lake Crystal: Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial

Pioneer Bank employees will also engage with students in select classrooms, further encouraging financial learning through reading and discussion. This initiative reflects Pioneer Bank’s commitment to strengthening the communities it serves by providing tools and resources that foster lifelong financial confidence.