Roger and Mary Kratochvil are the embodiment of community pride and service in Mount Olive, Illinois. Both graduates of Mount Olive High School—Roger in 1956 and Mary in 1960—they have dedicated their lives to uplifting the district and preserving the town’s rich history. From founding a transformative academic foundation to chronicling Mount Olive’s unique past, their impact has been immeasurable.

Roger, a beloved teacher and coach, spent 34 years inspiring Mount Olive students before retiring in 1994. But his passion for education didn’t end there. Just two years later, in 1996, he launched the Mount Olive Academic Foundation, a bold initiative designed to directly benefit classrooms and students. Mary, his steadfast partner, soon joined him, serving as the foundation’s secretary and eventually taking on the role of treasurer. Together, they’ve built a legacy of generosity and support that continues to shape the district.

The foundation operates on two guiding principles that reflect the Kratochvils’ practical and forward-thinking philosophy: no traditional fundraising and no scholarships. Instead, its focus is on providing “mini grants” of up to $750 for specific classroom needs. These grants fund everything from sensory tools and science equipment to art supplies and field trips, directly enhancing the learning environment.

“The foundation isn’t about raising money; it’s about raising opportunities,” Roger explains. “We’re here to make sure every student in Mount Olive has opportunities to succeed, no matter their background or challenges.”

Since its inception, the foundation has awarded over $1 million in grants—an extraordinary feat for a district serving fewer than 2,200 residents. Much of its success is due to the unwavering support of Mount Olive alumni and local businesses. Graduates from as far as California and Florida regularly contribute, inspired by the sense of connection they feel to their hometown. One particularly generous alumnus donated a $408,000 property, which the foundation sold to fund its mission.

For Roger and Mary, the foundation is a labor of love. Mary’s careful stewardship as treasurer ensures every dollar is maximized for impact, while Roger’s vision keeps the foundation focused on its core purpose: enriching the lives of Mount Olive students.

Beyond their work with the foundation, the Kratochvils have also become guardians of Mount Olive’s unique history. Roger, a self-described “amateur historian,” has written over 115 stories about the town, from its connection to Mother Jones to the rise and fall of its iconic landmarks. As a teacher, Roger made local history part of his curriculum, helping students see the value of their heritage.

“Mount Olive is small, but it’s significant,” Roger says. “Our stories matter, and they deserve to be told.”

Mary’s contributions to preserving Mount Olive’s legacy are equally impressive. She’s played a key role in maintaining local landmarks, such as the Soulsby Service Station on Route 66, which stands as a symbol of the town’s resilience and history. Together, Roger and Mary’s efforts ensure that future generations will understand the importance of Mount Olive’s place in the broader story of Illinois and the nation.

For all their accomplishments, the Kratochvils remain humble, viewing their work as a natural extension of their love for Mount Olive. They are quick to credit the community for the success of their initiatives, pointing to the generosity and dedication of their fellow residents.

“Mount Olive is more than just a town; it’s a family,” Mary says. “The support we’ve received for the foundation and other projects shows just how much this community values its schools and its people.”

As they look to the future, Roger and Mary are focused on ensuring the foundation’s longevity. They hope to inspire a new generation of leaders who will continue their work and carry Mount Olive’s legacy forward.

“Our job isn’t done,” Roger says with a smile. “There’s always more to do when you care about a place as much as we care about Mount Olive.”

Through their dedication to education and history, Roger and Mary Kratochvil have left an indelible mark on Mount Olive. Their story is one of vision, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of community—a legacy that will inspire for generations to come