Recognizing the importance and value of early financial education, Lake Trust Credit Union has made an investment in area teachers.

The Lansing, Mich.-based credit union has launched the Lake Trust Professional Development Award program, a scholarship program designed to boost teachers' financial education skills so they can deliver effective, highly engaging financial planning courses to area students.

Available to all middle school and high school business teachers, K-12 school counselors, and family and consumer science educators within the credit union's 35-county service area, the award program was designed as an educators' resource at a time when school districts facing shrinking budgets are unable to invest in professional development seminars or conferences.

A total of 10 awards will be granted for each school year based on availability, with up to $150 per educator/per school to be applied towards expenses such as travel, registration fees and substitute teacher pay.