Monticello
4 The Monticello School Board on a 6-0 vote approved an overnight travel request for the Monty Python robotics team to attend a regional competition at the Alaris Center in Grand Forks in March.

Coach Leanne Gertz said the team has grown rapidly this year and that the competition will involve multiple days of qualifying rounds and possible finals. "This is a huge privilege to be a new coach of our Monty Python's robotic team," Gertz said during the presentation, adding that the activity includes programming, leadership, fundraising and public speaking.

The team described logistics and finances for the trip. Gertz said the tournament venue is about 277 miles away and the group expects to depart school Wednesday afternoon and return Saturday evening, with 14 to 15 students and four adult chaperones. Team members reported having raised roughly $6,000 so far through sponsorships and fundraising; Pentair had agreed to cover registration fees typically in the $5,000 to $6,000 range, the coach said. Saint Cloud Community College, Monticello Lions Club and St. Cloud Technical College were listed among contributors.

Board members praised the students and the coaches for reviving and expanding the program. Mark Branson moved to approve the overnight trip request; Casey Root seconded the motion. The board voted unanimously to approve the request.

The team said it will follow district travel rules, use available school vans and attempt cost-saving measures such as free hotel breakfasts and on-site lunches. Board members asked the team to consider live-streaming or recording parts of the event so families who cannot attend can watch.

Monticello High School's robotics program competes in FIRST events, where three-team alliances and both autonomous and human components are part of the competition format. The presentation emphasized the programs focus on hands-on learning and community mentorship from neighboring districts.