Mitchell’s St. John-Paul the Second elementary school has received a $1.15-million dollar endowed gift which will benefit the teachers and school families. This is the largest estate gift in John Paul Two’s history. The Bruce Pody Charitable Trust was created following the death last year of Pody, who farmed near Artesian for more the 70 years.
John Paul Two Principal Sarah Timmer says it’s a transformational gift. “It’s exciting that the Pody family connected with the Hostler family on such a connection to bring them to events at this school, like the fall festival and some of the summer programs,” Timmer said. “Enough where he wanted to support this school in such a big way.”
She believes the $46,000 annual gift from the endowment is a difference-maker. “We’re going to be much more marketable with other schools,” Timmer noted. “And knowing that we don’t have to fall short in that area anymore, will help us get some of the best teachers.”
Timmer says this and other gifts will allow the school to offer a tuition freeze for the 2026-2027 school year.