AMERICAN FORK — Alpine School District has been recognized by the nation's largest school-selection consulting firm, SchoolMatch of Columbus, Ohio, for helping parents find schools that match the needs of their children.

Only 16 percent of the nation's 15,573 public school districts have been recognized for meeting the needs of families choosing schools. The award is not given by application but based on survey results.

SchoolMatch maintains data on every public school system throughout the United States.

More than 7 million parents access SchoolMatch services through the Internet. Criteria used for award selection include a close match to what SchoolMatch users request; competitive test scores yet not so academically rigorous so that children are intimidated; accreditation; recognition for excellence by a national foundation or the U.S. Department of Education and competitive teacher salaries.