Local philanthropist gifts million-dollar bonus to every Ross Valley teacher
A Marin County resident donated $1 million to Ross Valley School District, distributing a check to each of the district’s 100 teachers.
After discovering that Ross Valley School District falls in the bottom four percent for funding in California, local donor Maja Kristin pledged a $1 million contribution to the district’s educators. At a hastily arranged gathering on Thursday, principals distributed envelopes with personal checks to each of the 100 teachers in attendance. Superintendent Tyler Graff explained that despite affluent neighborhoods, the district’s tax base remains low due to Proposition 13’s property-tax cap.
The unexpected generosity was described by teachers as life-changing, with several sharing how the money could support family activities and reduce financial strain. Kristin said she hopes the gesture will encourage other community members to support public education through direct gifts or political action. The district has not issued a formal press release about the donation.
Why it matters
It highlights how private philanthropy can address funding gaps in public schools caused by tax policies.
In this story
