Hartsburg-Emden seniors honored as 2026 Illinois State Scholars

[December 04, 2025] 

Hartsburg-Emden High School proudly congratulates seniors Celia Cross and Ella Klokkenga on being named Illinois State Scholars for the 2025–2026 academic year. This honor is awarded by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) and recognizes the very highest academic achievers in the state.

Each year, more than 20,000 students across Illinois are selected for this prestigious distinction. Illinois State Scholars represent approximately the top 10 percent of high school seniors statewide, drawn from nearly 750 high schools. Selection is based on a combination of SAT or ACT scores and class rank (if applicable) at the end of the student’s junior year. High school counselors collaborate with ISAC to verify eligibility and determine recipients.

While Illinois State Scholar recognition does not include a monetary award, the honor is highly respected. Students may proudly include this distinction on college applications, scholarship submissions, and academic resumes as evidence of exceptional scholastic performance.

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We are incredibly proud of Celia Cross and Ella Klokkenga for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. Their achievement reflects not only personal effort but also the support of their families, teachers, and the Hartsburg-Emden community. Congratulations to them both on earning this outstanding statewide honor!

[Elizabeth Hilgert
School Counselor/Student Coordinator
Hartsburg-Emden CUSD #21]

 

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