Arlington board approves $90,000 distribution from Merle Maguire Mayo scholarship endowment
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Summary
The Arlington School District board approved a $90,000 distribution from the Merle Maguire Mayo endowment for 2025–26, increasing recurring awards and adding more one‑time scholarships; the funding plan was approved by roll‑call vote after student advisor input.
The Arlington School District Board of Directors approved a $90,000 distribution from the Merle Maguire Mayo scholarship endowment for the 2025–26 year, the district’s executive director of finance told the board.
Gina Zuidenhorst said the endowment’s principal remains intact and the board annually decides how to allocate earnings. “This year, we have $90,000 that we are putting out as available for the board to decide on the amounts and combinations of those scholarships,” Zuidenhorst said, noting the amount is higher than last year’s $67,000.
The board approved a recommended combination that includes three recurring scholarships of $3,500 paid over four years, 18 one‑time scholarships of $2,500 and three one‑time scholarships of $1,000, totaling $90,000. Student advisors reviewed the options and favored the plan that increases recurring awards from two students to three.
Director Dimock moved to approve the recommendation; Director Kelly seconded. The board took a roll‑call vote and approved the distribution as presented.
The endowment was established from the estate of Merle Maguire Mayo; district staff said the principal was placed in trust to be preserved in perpetuity and only investment proceeds are distributed annually. The district contracts with Arlington Dollars for Scholars to manage application and awarding processes.
Next steps include continuing administration of the awards through Arlington Dollars for Scholars and notifying selected recipients. The board did not amend the recommendation during the meeting.