In a report released in April by US News and World Report, South was ranked the 21st Best Public High School in Illinois.

Principal Dr. Barbara Georges accredits this ranking to South’s hardworking students.

“Our students work incredibly hard, take rigorous courses, and perform very well,” Georges said. “I think [our] value for education [is] a testament to the community.”

Additionally, 55 percent of South students have passed at least one Advanced Placement (AP) exam, 58 percent of students are proficient in math, 59 percent are proficient in reading, and 95 percent of students graduate, the US News and World Report, reported.

District 225 was also ranked the most desirable school district in Illinois, the Chicago Tribune reported, and out of 250 school districts in America, it ranked 31st.

Georges believes that this is due to the district’s focus on the same goals for each school and excellent collaboration. As for the students, this ranking helps to demonstrate how all their effort that they have put into their academics is paying off, Georges said.