Firm recognizes Geneva schools

What does the Geneva school district have in common with Michael Jordan?

Both have accomplished at least one "three-peat."

Jordan and the Bulls won three NBA titles in a row twice in the 1990s.

In the 2000s, Geneva has earned the SchoolSearch's Bright Red Apple Award of Excellence three years running.

"The Fox Valley is a great place for families to raise kids," said Geneva Superintendent Kent Mutchler. "We're excited Geneva was chosen as an excellent school district for kids. That for me is what the award means. We're doing a good job."

The award is based off several criteria, such as the districts' academic performance, student/teacher ratio, the amount of money spent per student, teacher education levels and the average teacher salary.

Although the distinction does not come with a monetary award, Mutchler said it recognizes the entire district.

"We're just thankful for it," he said. "I think it demonstrates how much our staff works in a caring way for kids. It also demonstrates the performance of our kids."

SchoolSearch is an educational research and consulting firm that publishes online rankings of Illinois public school systems.

Overall, 84 school districts across the state were recognized.

The Burlington-based Central Unit School District 301 was the only other Kane County area school to receive the honor. The district, which also serves the western Elgin area and portions of Campton Township, won for the high school category.

"This was kind of news to us, it was a surprise," said Superintendent Brad Hawk. "I knew of the organization, but didn't know they gave awards."

̢ۢStaff writer Lenore T. Adkins contributed to this report.