Sonoma Clean Power has made a significant investment in local public education with a $20,000 contribution to launch SchoolsRule Mendocino County, a new countywide initiative led by Mendocino County Superintendent of Schools Nicole Glentzer and the Mendocino County Office of Education (MCOE), dedicated to supporting every public school student in Mendocino County.
The announcement was made during a launch event hosted at MCOE, where district and charter school superintendents gathered with community leaders and elected officials. Attendees included representatives from the offices of Senator Mike McGuire and Assemblymember Chris Rogers, as well as Mendocino County Supervisors Madeline Cline (District 1), Maureen Mulheren (District 2), and John Haschak (District 3, Chair).
Funding Will Expand Access for Students
During the event, superintendents and charter leaders shared how SchoolsRule Mendocino County funding could help expand access to experiences beyond the classroom. Priorities included field trips, outdoor education, arts and science programs, summer learning opportunities, and experiences that build college and career readiness. Several leaders addressed the ongoing tension of limited funding and the challenge of undertaking additional fundraising at the local level. SchoolsRule, they noted, gives schools the flexibility to offer more enriching opportunities that many students would not otherwise have.
“Sonoma Clean Power stepped up for Mendocino County students,” said Nicole Glentzer, Mendocino County Superintendent of Schools. “This generous gift is more than financial support. It represents a shared commitment to ensuring all students, in every community, have access to opportunities that help them thrive.”
Sonoma Clean Power is a public agency that provides clean electricity to residents and businesses in Sonoma and Mendocino counties. In addition to its leadership in renewable energy and climate resilience, the agency supports community organizations and schools through grants, sponsorships, and volunteer efforts. Since its inception, Sonoma Clean Power has donated over $5 million to local non-profits, fire relief efforts, and workforce development programs. Their donation to SchoolsRule Mendocino County reflects a broad commitment to long-term community well-being.
“We know that SchoolsRule is an effective model for supporting students and expanding access to experiences they might not otherwise have,” said Sean Dalton, Events Manager at Sonoma Clean Power, addressing an audience of school leaders at the launch event. “Thank you for the work you’re doing and for putting these resources to good use. This effort reflects Sonoma Clean Power’s commitment to building resilient communities and opening doors for all students.”
About SchoolsRule Mendocino County
Modeled after successful efforts in Marin and Sonoma counties, SchoolsRule Mendocino County brings together businesses, educators, and community leaders with a shared goal: expanding opportunities for students. The program allows businesses to invest directly in education at the county level. Donations are distributed based on enrollment, so all public schools receive support. This approach helps strengthen communities over time and provides students with access to experiences they might not otherwise have.
To learn more or to contribute to the effort, please visit www.mcoe.us/schoolsrule.