Monticello School Board approves $1000 donation for fishing team sponsorship

Monticello Public Schools has taken a significant step towards enhancing student engagement in extracurricular activities following the approval of a $1,000 donation for the high school's fishing team during the School Board meeting on April 21, 2025. This funding, along with additional contributions from local businesses, aims to support the growing interest in the fishing program, which is now entering its third year.

Superintendent Eric Olsen highlighted the community's generosity, noting that the donations will help provide resources for students to participate in outdoor activities, fostering teamwork and a connection to nature. The board unanimously approved the acceptance of these donations, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting diverse student interests.

In addition to the funding for the fishing team, the meeting featured a presentation by Jacob Wilts, the high school's agriculture teacher, who proposed three upcoming trips for the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter. The first trip, scheduled for June, involves a two-day agricultural tour in the Owatonna-Waseca area, where students will explore various agricultural practices and facilities. The board approved this trip, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning in agriculture.

However, the board decided to table the approval of the other two proposed trips, which include an officer retreat and attendance at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. Board members expressed the need for more detailed information regarding these trips before making a decision, particularly concerning costs and logistics.

The meeting also touched on a potential policy change to create an unpaid position for an FFA assistant advisor, aimed at allowing alumni to assist with transportation and supervision during events. This proposal will be discussed further in future meetings, as the board seeks to enhance support for the FFA program without incurring additional costs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering student engagement through community support and innovative educational opportunities, setting a positive tone for future initiatives.