Last week Governor Kaine called out Martinsville City Schools for best illustrating what a school district can do to prepare for the challenges of a global economy, according to ABC 13.

Kaine praised school leaders, teachers and the students for making drastic and positive changes in the past two years. This is great news for all homeowners because having good, strong schools is vital to protecting home values.

"Governor Tim Kaine (web) was in Martinsville Wednesday, celebrating what he calls, 'competence to excellence.' Out of all 134 school districts across Virginia, the governor picked Martinsville City Schools as the district that best illustrates what can be done to prepare for the challenges of a global economy.

It started out a few years back when school administrators asked for a mandate that graduation requirements exceed that of the state. And ever since then, the district has ensured their young students are ready for the challenges ahead.

'But what you have done... well, frankly in just two years; some of the initiatives you have put together are amazing,' Kaine said from the podium."

Read the full story.