Mentor High kids got the best of both worlds Tuesday -- a little less school work and a chance to help the United Way of Lake County.

It's all part of "Stall The Teacher." Teachers who chose to participate allowed students to bring in dollars and coins to donate and the class couldn't start until the teachers finished counting the cash.

The students must have wanted class to start late because they gave about $2,300.

The new tradition started last year when students wanted to get more involved in giving back to the community, said Michelle Morris, the high school’s Spanish teacher and co-advisor for student government.

“The students wanted to do it again this year because last year we were able to raise so much money, and all of it goes to United Way of Lake County,” Morris said. “I think it’s huge for the students to be charity-minded because it makes for a well-rounded student. They’re giving back to the community and the money stays in the community they live in.”

The local chapter of United Way started its annual fundraising campaign in August. Mentor Schools Superintendent Jacqueline Hoynes is one of the campaign's co-chairs.

Money raised during the campaign benefits 74 partner programs that the nonprofit organization funds. These programs focus on senior citizens, health and human services, children, families and basic needs.