The global pandemic forced Monterey High School's Class of 1971 to cancel its 50th reunion in 2021, but that didn't stop these Toreadors from finding a way to commemorate the milestone.
Reunion organizers recently found a unique way to celebrate while paying it forward to current classes at Monterey High. According to Howard Esaki, one of the organizers, "The committee agreed to solicit class members for donations to Monterey Peninsula Unified School District teacher projects listed on the Donors Choose fundraising website. A link to the Monterey High Class of 1971 Giving Page may be found here.
To date, the Monterey High School Class of 1971 has raised $2,663 to fund 16 projects at 13 schools while supporting 15 MPUSD teachers. Projects range from buying books, sleeping bags and gardening supplies to supporting arts programs, such as weaving and jewelry making.
According to teacher estimates, the projects will affect nearly 800 students. Check out the projects, teachers, and teacher comments by clicking on the "Funded Projects" tab on the giving page.
“We were extremely grateful to learn about this wonderful support,” said Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh. “This gesture of kindness and giving will go a long way in supporting our teachers and students during this challenging time.”
This giving effort is gaining momentum, and the 1971 committee is encouraging Monterey High's Class of 1972 to participate in honor of their 50th reunion later this year.