Dr. Furlong attended Lincoln College, Illinois State University, Roosevelt University and Aurora University, and she has 20 years of experience in education, serving in roles as a special education teacher, assistant director of special education, director of special education, and building principal.
“I'm so excited to be a part of such a family and student-centered community. My husband works at the high school and our son attends elementary school in Geneseo so we are highly invested in the community,” said Dr. Furlong. “I'm eager to work here because I have seen first-hand all the amazing teachers and their hard work they put in for our students. I'm excited for my role to support staff, students, and to continue to grow our special education programming so all students succeed. My goals include continuing the great things happening in Geneseo while providing coaching, resources, and supports to staff, students, and families.”
Tara received her first bachelor’s degree in recreation from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. After working in management for several years, she became a stay-at-home mom and spent the next eight years raising her two sons. During that period, she attended Western Illinois of the Quad Cities to obtain her second bachelor’s degree in education. After graduating, she spent 13 years teaching 7th and 8th grade language arts for the East Moline school district.
“I am thrilled to be coming back home to complete my teaching career. As a grad of Geneseo High School and having two sons that went through the Geneseo schools, I can’t think of a better place to be,” said Tara. “I look forward to meeting the students, parents, and peers that I will have the opportunity to share experiences with. I’m honored to be back ‘home.’”
Please join us in welcoming Mitch Munda, who will teach physical education and health education at Geneseo High School.
Mr. Munda received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and his graduate degree from the American College of Education. He spent eight years at Antioch Community High School teaching strength and conditioning, PE, and health, and coaching football, basketball, and track and field.
“I'm incredibly excited to teach in Geneseo because of the opportunity to connect with students in a community that values both academic rigor and personal growth,” stated Mr. Munda. “I enjoy watching students develop and reach their potential, and celebrating their successes is one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching. My classroom is structured with high expectations, but I believe in creating an environment where students can have fun while pushing themselves to succeed. My goal is to help students not only learn but also build confidence in their abilities to tackle challenges and achieve their goals.”
We are once again introducing our new certified staff, and first up is Keyaira Lavine, our new school counselor at Geneseo High School.
Mrs. Lavine received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, then earned a master’s degree in school counseling from Western Illinois University. She was previously a building sub and paraprofessional in Rock Island throughout her grad program, and worked as a school counselor in Davenport the past two years.
“I am delighted to return to Geneseo to be an active member at GHS and in the community I have known and loved,” said Mrs. Lavine. “My husband, Adam, and I graduated from Geneseo and our children, Bristol and Magnolia, will be the fourth generation in our family to attend as well.”
https://www.geneseoschools.org/o/geneseo/page/register-for-the-2025-26-school-year
