Fifth-grade students at Poplar Springs School were among the 12,000 Mississippi students in grades K-12 to benefit from the sixth annual “A Banker in Every Classroom” financial literacy program.

Each presentation represents a partnership between a local teacher and a local banker. Trustmark National Bank’s Tyler Walton and Shawnda Grace presented to the Poplar Springs students.

More than 530 classroom presentations have taken place across Mississippi, according to the sponsoring Mississippi Bankers Association. Lessons were given in personal finance during the week of Oct. 31-Nov. 4.

“The project is making a difference by helping students understand financial matters – which is so important to personal growth and success,” Mac Deaver, president of the Mississippi Bankers Association, said.

In its first five years, “A Banker in Every Classroom” reached more than 55,000 Mississippi students. Lessons cover a wide range of topics including savings, credit, budgeting and many others.

W. Lauderdale students visit capitol

On Nov. 16, Speaker of the House Philip Gunn and Rep. William Shirley welcomed a group of fourth-grade students from West Lauderdale Elementary School to the Mississippi State Capitol. Shirley talked with the students about his work in the House and answered the students’ questions when they toured the House Chamber.

Wesley House donations

Volunteers and staff at Wesley House Community Center were busy last week getting bags of groceries ready for families who need assistance during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. As part of the annual holiday assistance program, Wesley House distributed more than 200 bags of groceries to those less fortunate.