Blog Category
Volunteers
Blogs related to volunteers and volunteering
Some Things Are Caught, Not Taught
September 2, 2026
This year LEAF is featuring blogs from our Board members and volunteers sharing why they give their time and talents in service to District 742 students. Today’s blog is from Lori Johnson, a member of our LEAF Board.
Some things are caught, not taught. Growing up, I watched my parents show up — for their neighbors, their community, and anyone who needed a…
Activities Build Future Ready Students
August 3, 2026
This year LEAF is featuring blogs from our Board members and volunteers sharing why they give their time and talents in service to District 742 students. Today’s blog is from Hillary Johnson, a member of our LEAF Board.
When I joined St. Cloud Tech High School as Activities Director a year ago, I knew extracurricular activities were important. But I don’t…
The Ripple Effect of Student Opportunity
July 16, 2026
This year LEAF is featuring blogs from our Board members and volunteers sharing why they give their time and talents in service to District 742 students. Today’s blog is from Becky Bastein, a member of our LEAF Board.
Although I am a transplant to St. Cloud, I am a product of the Minnesota public school system. During those years, I discovered so much abou…
Building Bridges Between Community Generosity and Student Opportunity
July 1, 2026
By: Shannon Avenson, LEAF Board Member and Executive Director of Community Education & Partnerships
This year, LEAF is featuring insights from our board and volunteers on why we give our time to this organization. For me, the “why” is woven into almost every chapter of my life. I wear a few hats in our community: I am a long-time district administrator…
Seeing the Impact of LEAF Firsthand
June 12, 2026
This year LEAF is featuring blogs from our Board members and volunteers sharing why they give their time and talents in service to District 742 students. Today’s blog is from Justin Skaalerud, a member of our LEAF Board.
I am honored to serve as the Principal of Apollo High School, to have been a teacher and coach, and to be the parent of a three-sport Apo…
From Then to Now: How School Experiences Shape a Lifetime
May 31, 2026
This year LEAF is featuring blogs from our Board members and volunteers sharing why they give their time and talents in service to District 742 students. Today’s blog is from Elise Weiner, a member of our LEAF Board.
Recently, I had the joy of reconnecting with a group of high school classmates as we began planning our 50th—yes, 50th—class reunion. As we s…
Latest News
Some Things Are Caught, Not Taught
September 2, 2026
Activities Build Future Ready Students
August 3, 2026
The Ripple Effect of Student Opportunity
July 16, 2026