News-Gazette

Elementary receives Exemplary Designation

Villa Grove Schools

November 15, 2024

Students and staff at

Villa Grove CUSD 302

Elementary were all smiles after receiving a report card worth tacking on the fridge: For the first time, the Douglas County school received an “exemplary” designation, the highest handed out by the Illinois State Board of Education.

To spotlight the achievement, Principal Bobby Beck helped coordinate with News-Gazette Photo Editor Robin Scholz a celebration in the gym that included almost all 284 students and 43 staff members.

The

wonderful scene will play out on a cover page in Friday’s print editions — available at

Circle K

and

Casey's General Store

in Villa Grove — as part of Editor Jeff D’Alessio’s deep dive into area schools and their ISBE accolades.