Gurnee Schools Receive a Combined $10,000 from Gurnee Mills

In the second installment of the Bucks for Books program, Gurnee-area schools received a combined $10,000 from Gurnee Mills last week. In a Feb. 6 in-mall awards ceremony, River Trail School returned to claim first-place and was awarded $3,500. Woodland Elementary East again took second place and was awarded $2,500, and $1,500 was awarded to Spaulding School for third place. School officials reported they will use the money to further develop and integrate flex seating in classrooms. Innovative furniture, such as wiggle chairs, allow students the opportunity to find seating that best fits their learning styles.

After success last school year, in January through May of 2017, the Bucks for Books program, designed to assist local schools with funding for programs in need, pledged $10,000 in total prize money for a second year for schools in Gurnee districts 121, 50 and 56, based on sales receipts tallied from schools’ supporters from September 2017 through January 2018. Other schools receiving awards were Woodland Elementary West with a fourth place, $1,000 finish, and Woodland Primary School and Prairie Trail School, each receiving a $750 award.

“We want to thank Gurnee Mills for their ongoing support of the Gurnee school districts. Many may not realize, but it’s because of the mall that our community does not pay property taxes, which makes shopping local a huge priority for the families at our schools,” said Dr. John Hutton, superintendent of district 56. “From the bottom of our hearts, we are so grateful for the generosity of Gurnee Mills and are excited to continue our growing partnership.”

“We’re delighted to continue to support our community and Gurnee schools with well-deserved funds,” said Randy Ebertowski, general manager of Gurnee Mills. “The Bucks for Books program is one example of our desire to further education and strengthen the Lake County community.”

About Gurnee Mills

Located at the intersection of Interstate 94 and Grand Avenue (IL 132) in Gurnee, Ill., Gurnee Mills is the largest shopping destination of its kind in the Chicago area, featuring an unparalleled selection of nearly 200 outlet, full-price retailers, along with standout dining and entertainment offerings, all under one roof. Top-name brands include Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Forever 21, H&M, Guess Factory Store, Gap Outlet, Nike Clearance Store, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, LEGO Brand Retail Store, Charming Charlie, and a full-line Macy’s. For more information, call (847) 263-2414, visit www.gurneemills.com, or follow Gurnee Mills on Facebook.

About Simon

Simon is a global leader in the ownership of premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations and an S&P 100 company (Simon Property Group, NYSE:SPG). Our properties across North America, Europe, and Asia provide community gathering places for millions of people every day and generate billions in annual sales. For more information, visit simon.com.