Geneva dedicates Fabyan Elementary School

GENEVA – As parents, Tom and Carolyn Taylor have experienced much of what their school system can offer.

It was, after all, a large part of what led them to build their home in the Mill Creek community a decade ago.

But this school year, when the Geneva Community Unit School District 304 opened Fabyan Elementary School, the Taylors were able to experience something new –  a school within walking distance.

"Our son is able to ride his bike to school now," Tom said. "It's just really nice to have a school like this right here in our community."

On Sunday, the Taylors were among those who came to Fabyan Elementary to take part in a ceremony and open house to dedicate the Geneva school district's newest school.

The event drew about 100 parents and students, as well as representatives of the Geneva school district, the Geneva community and the contractors who designed and built the school.

The school, built just off the intersection of Fabyan Parkway and South Mill Creek Drive in unincorporated Geneva, is the second elementary school to serve the Mill Creek community.

Contractors began work on the school in 2007. The school opened to students for the first time last month.

Fabyan Elementary School was one of two schools built by the Geneva district using taxes raised from a $79.9 million referendum.

The school also was the source of some controversy in 2008 and into early 2009 as the district rearranged attendance zones to account for the new school. A number of parents had objected to the changes, which caused their children to attend new elementary schools.

Geneva school district officials referenced the matter in their remarks to those attending the dedication ceremony at Fabyan school Sunday afternoon.

But they said those involved with Fabyan school are moving on.

"While I am walking these halls, and watching the children and the staff engaged in learning, it becomes apparent to me that Fabyan is moving forward," said Darcy Thompson, principal at Fabyan Elementary.

District officials also noted that the dedication of Fabyan marks a break for the district from building schools, as a slumping housing market has tamped down enrollment growth. They said the break will allow the district to focus on improving classroom instruction and curriculum.

"We have experienced unprecedented growth," said Mary Stith, president of the Geneva District 304 Board of Education. "But now we are able to take a little breather.

"And I hope you enjoy it with us."