SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) recently congratulated 90 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.

“This is one of the most prestigious awards that is offered to high schoolers in our state, and the students who earned it should be proud of this recognition of their efforts,” Peters said. “Earning this award shows not only a dedication to academic success, but also an ability to cope with the adversity and struggles brought on by a global pandemic. I am extremely honored to represent these bright kids in Springfield, and I eagerly look forward to the time when they’re running things.”

The scholars include students from seven area high schools: George Washington High School, Hyde Park Career Academy, Kenwood Academy, Martin Luther King Jr. High School, Mount Carmel High School, University of Chicago Lab High School, and Walter H Dyett High School for the Arts.

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.

“College admission and financial aid can be a competitive process, and this award will give the students who earned it a leg up, making their hard work worth the reward,” Peters said.

More information about the State Scholar program can be found at ISAC’s website.