WINNETKA – State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) recently honored 428 Winnetka 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.

“It takes hard work and dedication to become an Illinois State Scholar, especially during a year filled with trials and tribulations due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Senator Fine said. “I am immensely proud of the students in our community who earned this prestigious academic award.”

The Scholars from Winnetka include students from two area high schools, including New Trier High School and North Shore Country Day School.

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.

“Our Illinois State Scholars deserve our praise and admiration,” Senator Fine said. “I can’t wait to see the opportunities that lie ahead for these students.”

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