The Massachusetts Association of School Business Officials (MASBO) is proud to announce the 2026 recipient of our Positive Impact Fund: Gill-Montague Regional School District.
Joanne Blier, Director of Business & Operations for the district, applied for funds to support a new “traffic garden” constructed at Sheffield Elementary School last fall. Joanne noted in her application that the project is a successful collaboration between the school district and the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG). She wrote, “the dedicated, hands-on learning space allows students to master essential road rules and safety skills for biking and walking.”
With grant funding from the Town of Montague after-school program, the district purchased new bikes and scooters for students. Massachusetts State Police and local police and fire departments donated helmets.
“This program dramatically enhances safety education and community engagement for hundreds of students during recess and after-school activities,” Joanne wrote.
The $1,000 award from MASBO will be applied to the purchase of a storage shed to protect the new equipment and ensure its long-term use and easy access for all students during recess, the after-school program, and potentially in physical education classes.
For more information about the traffic garden, read the FRCOG report, “Innovations in Age-Friendly Transportation Planning.”
Joanne is a longtime MASBO member who has worked in school finance and operations for more than 30 years, including nearly 12 years in her current role. She previously worked as School Business Administrator for the Mohawk Trail Regional School District and in the Business Office at Greenfield Public Schools.
For many years, the MASBO Positive Impact Fund (PIF) has benefited students, families, and staff in our members’ school districts. The fund provides mini-grants to support educational and recreational projects, or programs that directly support students.
Applications for the FY27 Positive Impact Fund will be available in November 2026.
PIF is supported through the MASBO budget (not including member fees), as well as corporate and private sponsorships. The fund has contributed to vital programs in art, music, drama, sports, science, field trips, technology, and much more.
The selection criteria prioritize submissions that:
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are consistent with MASBO's mission;
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impact the school district or community organization;
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reflect an effective and timely implementation plan for the proposed project or program;
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incorporate responsible leadership and management of the proposed project or program;
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connect to a previously-funded MASBO research project (e.g., Smart Budget, Drop Out Prevention, Early Childhood).