Aurora Public Schools (APS) Superintendent Rico Munn has been named a finalist for the nation’s most prestigious award in urban education, APS announced Friday.

Munn is one of 20 finalists for the 2020 Green-Garner Award from the Council of the Great City Schools.

“Being recognized as a finalist for this award is a great honor,” Munn said. “It recognizes the relentless work of all our students, staff members, families and community.”

The annual Green-Garner Award is given to one superintendent or school board member in the U.S. to recognize outstanding contributions in urban education.

The award recognizes those with “a strong dedication to the needs of students, a profound commitment to improvement and exemplifying significant community involvement and leadership,” the council said.

Munn has been the APS superintendent since 2013.

Since 2013, APS has increased graduation rates by 25%, decreased dropout rates by 50%, closed the race graduation gap and been taken off of the Colorado Department of Education’s Accountability Clock, according to APS.

“Aurora Public Schools has shown remarkable resilience in the face of incredible challenges this year,” Munn said, “and continues to build on its momentum as a district committed to improving outcomes for every student.”

Munn is the only nominee in Colorado. Other nominees include three in New York, three in Florida, two in California and two in Texas.

The award winner will be announced during the council’s virtual 64th Fall Conference on Oct. 15.