On Jan. 28, the Greater San Marcos Partnership Marketing Alliance launched an awareness campaign on behalf of San Marcos CISD.

The one-year campaign, Making the Grade! San Marcos, is aimed at raising positive awareness about the district's programs, awards and achievements.

"When it comes to demonstrating and exuding success, a lot of that is predicated upon reputation," said San Marcos Mayor Daniel Guerrero, who is the honorary chairman of the Making the Grade! campaign. "As a product of San Marcos schools, I'm very proud to be a graduate of San Marcos High School and a product of our school district and our community.

"One of the hardships, though, is that we've struggled at times to exude that reputation throughout the state of Texas and throughout the nation as being one of the premier institutions and premier districts of outstanding talent."

Guerrero said the group is committed to pushing beyond "perception issues" and to identifying solutions for the district.

Partnership President and CEO Amy Madison said the campaign will use information, statistics and comparisons with other school districts in the region to reach parents who are determining where their children should go to school. The campaign could also help recruit companies to the district, she said.

"They're going to hear why this is a great district to be a part of," Madison said.

Superintendent Mark Eads said San Marcos CISD is a leader in education technology, and the district is solid financially. Bowie Elementary and San Marcos High schools have been recognized for advancements in math and social studies, he added.

"Sometimes we get focused on the little things, and we forget about the great things our students and our community are doing," Eads said. "There will be some hurdles, and there's going to be some mistakes made, and we're going to overcome them. And we need you to be on our team."

For information, visit www.makingthegradesanmarcos.com.