The Monticello Public Schools Board meeting on September 22, 2025, highlighted a significant boost in community support for local educational programs. Superintendent Eric Olsen announced several generous donations, including $3,000 from the Jean Haas Foundation for the Monty Python's robotics team and another $3,000 from the Ellison Foundation aimed at the Rally to Read initiative for families with young children.

The meeting also featured a heartfelt presentation from the Live Like Gina Foundation, which honored the memory of Dinah Schafer's late twin sister. The foundation presented a substantial check to the district's C5 program, designed for young adults aged 18 to 21 with special needs. Schafer shared the foundation's mission to give back to the community, reflecting her sister's passions and values. Their recent fundraising event raised over $9,000, which they decided to contribute to the C5 program, emphasizing the importance of life skills for young adults.

These contributions underscore the community's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and supporting students with diverse needs. The board's unanimous approval of the consent agenda and the absence of citizen comments indicated a smooth and focused meeting, with a clear emphasis on collaboration and fiscal stability. The board looks forward to the positive impact these donations will have on the district's programs.