06/18/2026
Geneva 304 is hiring! We are hiring support staff. We have openings for Special Education Assistants at all levels, Reading Tutor, Reading Lab Assistant, and Lunchroom Supervisor. Take a look and apply today to join the Geneva 304 team. https://www.applitrack.com/D304/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Support+Staff
06/05/2026
We extend our sincere gratitude to all participants in the inaugural year of the WATCH D.O.G.S. Program and look forward to welcoming new and returning faces next year.
06/01/2026
☀️🎉 Happy Last Day of School, Geneva 304! 🎉☀️ As the final bell rings, we celebrate a year full of learning, growth, and unforgettable moments. Each of you has worked hard, supported one another, and made this school year something special. 💙
Now it’s time to relax, recharge, and enjoy all the fun that summer has to offer! Whether you’re exploring new places, spending time with family and friends, or simply soaking up the sunshine, we hope your days are filled with joy and adventure.
Have a safe and happy summer, and we can’t wait to welcome you back, refreshed and ready for another great year! ☀️😎
05/25/2026
In observance of Memorial Day, there will be no school and all offices will be closed today.
As we enjoy the long weekend, we remember and honor those who served and sacrificed for our freedom.
05/15/2026
Western Walks brought the energy, laughter, and sunshine to the annual spring celebration at Western Avenue School! ☀️
Students made their way around the school grounds, stopping at different stations to learn dances, play games, and enjoy time together outdoors. From music and movement to friendly competition, the day was filled with fun and school spirit.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this special tradition such a memorable experience for our students. We love seeing our community come together to celebrate the season! 🌼
05/15/2026
🌺✈️ Kindergarten Air has officially landed in Hawaii! 🌴🌋 This week, the Western Avenue School kindergarteners had an exciting view from their “flight,” spotting a volcano, exploring unique land formations, and taking in a beautiful beach below. 🌊☀️ The Kindergarten teachers transformed their classrooms into an airplane so that students could experience what it might be like to "fly to Hawaii."
A big thank you to the amazing flight crew for the journey:
Pilot: Captain Larry Cabeen, District Board of Ed President
Flight Attendants: Ms. Lopez, Ms. Helmlinger, Ms. Miller
TSA: Principal Mr. O’Connell and Mr. Bochenczak
05/13/2026
Mr. Ochoa has now made national news! Last night, on CBS Evening News with Tony Dokoupil, parts of the “Papa Duck” story, that was originally aired on CBS Chicago News last Wednesday, was featured in “The Good Stuff” segment of the program. Tony Dokoupil also had a Zoom call with Mr. Ochoa yesterday which was also featured in the national story.
We are so proud of Mr. Ochoa and the recognition he is receiving for 29 years of being the caring, nurturing “Papa Duck” at Western.
How an elementary school custodian earned the title of "Papa Duck"
Outside of Chicago, at Western Avenue Elementary, the head custodian has been looking out for little ducklings for 29 years. Matt Gutman has the story."CBS E...
05/07/2026
🦆💛 It’s duckling season at Western Avenue School!
For 30+ years, a mama duck has chosen the school courtyard to hatch her ducklings. And when it’s time to take them to the pond across the street, she taps on the door with her beak! Custodian Mr. Ochoa has safely guided the duck family to the pond every year for the past 29 years, creating a moment that students never forget.
This sweet tradition even made the news—featured on CBS Chicago yesterday! Take a look!
Suburban elementary school custodian helps ducklings start new journey home
Head custodian Martin Ochoa, known as "Papa Duck," is a celebrity at Western Avenue Elementary in Geneva for helping newly hatched ducklings nested in the sc...
05/06/2026
Duck families!! Don't miss the heartwarming story about Custodian Mr. Ochoa and the family of ducks that will be featured on the 10 PM news on CBS tonight. You can watch it here:
CBS Chicago - Breaking News, First Alert Weather, Exclusive Investigations & Community Journalism ... For the love of Chicago
For the love of Chicago. Check the latest breaking news from CBS Chicago.