5 Ways the Community Can Support Public Schools (Beyond Donations)
Public schools are the heartbeat of our communities, shaping the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and neighbors. In District 742, we’re proud of our diverse, vibrant schools that reflect the values of St. Cloud and the surrounding area. While financial donations to LEAF are always appreciated, there are many other meaningful ways the community can rally around our students and educators. Here are five impactful ways you can support your local schools—no checkbook required.
1. Volunteer Your Time
Time is one of the most valuable resources you can offer. District 742 schools regularly welcome volunteers for classroom support, mentoring programs, reading buddies, field trips, and extracurricular activities. Even an hour a week can make a big difference in a child’s academic and emotional growth.
How to start: Contact your neighborhood school or visit isd742.org/volunteer to see what opportunities are available.
2. Advocate for Public Education
Your voice matters. Supporting policies that benefit public schools—whether at the school board, city, or state level—helps ensure strong funding, equitable access to resources, and supportive learning environments for all students.
Action tip: Attend a school board meeting, write to your local representatives, or simply share facts about the importance of public education with friends and family.
3. Celebrate and Share Success Stories
Our students and staff are doing incredible things every day, from robotics competitions to cultural fairs to academic achievements. Sharing these successes on social media, with local news outlets, or just in conversation helps build pride and investment in our schools.
Try this: Follow District 742 and LEAF on social media and repost stories that inspire you. Tag the school or district when you see something awesome!
4. Partner with Schools Through Your Business or Organization
Local businesses, nonprofits, and faith groups have unique skills and resources that can benefit students—from internship opportunities to career talks to classroom supplies. Partnerships strengthen community ties and open doors for students to explore real-world learning.
Example: Consider offering job-shadowing days, sponsoring school events, or donating professional expertise.
5. Support Students Outside the Classroom
Learning doesn’t stop when the final bell rings. Offering rides to activities, helping with homework, attending school events, or just being a caring, consistent adult in a young person’s life can provide critical encouragement and stability.
Get involved: Ask a neighbor with kids how you can support their family, or mentor a student through local programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters or the Promise Neighborhood of Central MN.
Every Effort Counts
You don’t have to be a teacher or a parent to make a difference. Whether you’re a retiree, college student, business owner, or lifelong St. Cloud resident, your unique talents can help our schools thrive.
Public education is a community effort—and together, we can make District 742 a place where all students feel seen, supported, and set up for success.