St. Mary to purchase first-ever new bus

Storm Lake St. Mary’s Ball and Auction Chairs David and Melissa Iehl, in collaboration with St. Mary’s School, announced the fund-a-cause initiative for the 2025 Ball and Auction, scheduled for March 8 at the Siebens Forum at Buena Vista University. The fund-a-cause dollars will purchase a new school bus.

Faced with the ongoing challenge of an ever aging, repair-ridden bus, school leaders recognize the current bus is insufficient to transport students to and from field trips, athletic events and extracurricular activities. 

“It is our priority to provide safe and reliable transportation to all students, and at this point in time, we need to invest in a new bus," said Father Brent Lingle, St. Mary pastor and school president.

The bus will be a 2025 model with up-to-date safety features, holds 77 passengers, features seatbelts, storage and will have 0 miles. 

“This is the first time in school history that we will purchase a brand-new school bus; we have previously only owned used buses,” said Dave Iehl. 

“As we decided on our fund-a-cause, we wanted to raise money for something that impacted every student in the school. A new school bus will do just that,” Melissa added.

Funds will be raised the night of the Ball and Auction during the reverse auction, and students will participate in a “Money War” in the classrooms to raise funds for the new bus.

The goal is to raise $160,000 to purchase the bus and have a remaining amount available for repair and maintenance as needed. “

St. Mary’s Catholic School is a K-12 private Catholic School committed to values of compassion, respect, faith and academic excellence. St. Mary’s serves students in all grades and from all faith backgrounds. St. Mary’s Catholic School seeks to be a Christ-centered family devoted to the development of the spirit, the mind and the body.

To contribute to this cause, visit StormLakeCatholic.com - For more information, contact: St. Mary’s Parish Office at 712-732-3110.

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