From classroom to cash: 30 educators’ decade-long lottery tradition pays off big

A group of 30 dedicated school employees from Kentucky are celebrating a stroke of luck after their long-standing lottery tradition finally led to a substantial windfall—a $1 million Powerball jackpot.

Pooling their fortunes since 2019, the staff members of Rector A. Jones Middle School in Florence, affectionately dubbed the ‘Jones 30’, have faithfully played the same set of numbers, carefully selected by a retired math teacher and assistant principal. The decision to adhere to these permanent Powerball numbers proved fortuitous, culminating in a collective win that saw each member pocketing $24,000 after taxes.

The group’s remarkable journey to lottery success began with a simple ritual: drawing their lucky numbers from a hat. For over eight years, these dedicated educators have contributed to the pot, fostering a sense of camaraderie that transcends the classroom. Despite changes in roles and retirements, the bond forged through their shared experiences has endured, serving as the foundation of their enduring friendship.

Reflecting on their victory, one member expressed gratitude for the group’s longstanding tradition, emphasizing the joy of experiencing such a momentous occasion together. From shared trips to the arrival of babies and grandbabies, the Jones 30 have weathered life’s ups and downs as a cohesive unit, finding solace and joy in each other’s company.

As they look ahead, some winners plan to use their winnings for travel or home improvements, while others contemplate prudent investments. Yet, beyond material considerations, the true prize lies in the bonds of friendship strengthened by this unexpected windfall.

 For the Jones 30, the journey from classroom camaraderie to lottery triumph serves as a testament to the enduring power of shared experiences and collective dreams.