LAWRENCE, Kan. -Recently Congressman Dennis Moore visited with the nine students who run the first student-run credit union in Kansas. "I was pleased to join Free State Credit Union and Hillcrest Elementary in this innovative partnership to teach students about real life finances. This student credit union uses realistic role-playing to educate young people about money management and responsible savings practices. I am glad that the Lawrence community will benefit from the skills these sixth-graders are learning," said Moore. Hillcrest Elementary School and Free State Credit Union formed a Lawrence Business/Education Partnership and opened the student branch in April 2002. In the first seven weeks, 47 students deposited over $1,300. The program is designed to teach children valuable math, decision-making, career skills, life skills, and critical thinking skills. "Our student credit union has provided our 6th grade students with the real life experience of running a business. They have learned a great deal about working together to make a business operate smoothly. Our other students are learning about the importance of saving at a young age. It has provided a wonderful learning experience," said Hillcrest Elementary School Principal Tammy Becker.