Co-founder of neurodiverse school donates $3M

In a display of commitment to inclusive education, Keli and Mark Mondello have donated $3 million to LiFT (Learning Independence for Tomorrow), a school for neurodiverse children and adults.

LiFT is a unique school with a mission of “providing exceptional education for K-12 students and empowering adult learners with skills crucial for employment and independence.” Keli co-founded the school in 2013 to help her own neurodivergent daughter. In addition to their $3 million donation, Keli and her husband Mark, the former CEO of Jabil Circuit, have also announced they will match up to $3.5 million more in donations made through the end of 2023.

“Co-founding this school was driven by a belief in the power of education to shape lives,” said Keli Mondello. “This investment is not just in our school, but in the dreams and aspirations of every student who walks through our doors. Together, we’ll create a legacy of learning that lasts a lifetime.”

Keli and Mark Mondello recently donated $3M to LiFT (Learning Independence for Tomorrow), a school for neurodiverse children and adults. Photo provided.

The Pinellas County couple are currently co-chairs of the school’s “LiFTing Our Future Capital Campaign.” In the next five years, LiFT plans to double the number of students by enrolling and serving more than 400 students per year. According to LiFT leaders, they aim to accomplish this goal while keeping class sizes small and instruction individualized. Although it is based in Clearwater, the academy welcomes any student throughout Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties to attend.

“Education isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey; it’s about creating a diverse, inclusive roadmap where every mind finds its path to flourish,” said Keli Mondello. “For neurodiverse individuals, tailored educational opportunities aren’t just beneficial; they’re fundamental. By championing inclusive education, LiFT paves the way for every child and adult to unlock their unique potential, fostering a society that values and harnesses the richness of diverse minds. LiFT is the equity, building bridges of understanding and support, ensuring that educational opportunities are as diverse as the beautiful spectrum of minds they serve.”

Earlier this year, LiFT opened a new educational facility at a former YMCA center in Clearwater. The state-of-the-art campus at 1005 South Highland Ave. encompasses 60,000 square feet and sits on 7.2 acres. The renovations include expanded classroom spaces for all grade levels, therapy rooms, sensory rooms, art spaces, outdoor fields, a gymnasium and the establishment of the Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center.

“It’s not just about constructing a campus; it’s about empowering every individual within our neurodiverse community to thrive,” added Shawn Naugle, Executive Director of LiFT, in a prepared statement. “Together, these matched donations build a future where potential knows no bounds. We wholeheartedly believe in the profound impact this capital campaign will have for generations to come.” 

According to information distributed by the school, the capital campaign has currently raised 60% of its $16M goal.