SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) recently honored 352 local high school students who were named 2021-22 Illinois State Scholars by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.
Illinois State Scholar winners rank in approximately the top 10% of the state’s high school seniors from 676 high schools in all 102 counties. Selection is based on a combination of standardized test scores and class rank or unweighted GPA at the end of the student’s junior year. ISAC works in conjunction with the students’ high school guidance counselors to determine the winners.
“Our community has some of the best schools and brightest students in the state, and I’m extremely proud of the kids who earned this prestigious award,” Feigenholtz said. “It is a reflection of all the hard work put in not just by the students, but by the parents and teachers who helped support them.”
The scholars from the area include students from seven area high schools: Lane Tech High School, Alcott High School, DePaul College Prep, Disney Magnet School, Francis W. Parker School, Lake View High School, and Latin School of Chicago.
Recipients of the award will receive a congratulatory letter from ISAC, and a Certificate of Achievement will be sent to their high school. State Scholars will also receive a digital badge issued by ISAC that can be displayed on online profiles, exhibited on social media, and shared with prospective colleges and employers.
“The past year has been one of the toughest years for education we’ve ever had, so I’m thrilled for the students who get to wear this award as a badge of pride and show everyone how dedicated they are to academic success,” Feigenholtz said.
More information about the State Scholar program can be found at ISAC’s website.