Peoria, IL... State Rep. David Leitch (R-Peoria) is sending his heartfelt congratulations to area high school students who were recently named 2011 Illinois State Scholars by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
Illinois State Scholar winners rank in the top ten percent of the state's high school seniors from 749 different high schools across the state. Selection is based on SAT, ACT and/or Prairie State Achievement Exam scores, and/or class rank at the end of the junior year. High school guidance counselors work in conjunction with ISAC to determine winners.
"I am so proud of the students from my district who earned this prestigious statewide plaudit," said Rep. Leitch. "It's a tribute not only to the hardworking students, but also their families, teachers, and school administrators."
"Excellent high school grades are tremendously important for laying the groundwork for future college success," said ISAC Executive Director Andrew Davis. "Illinois State Scholars are the best and the brightest in our state's high schools, and we salute them, their families and their teachers on this achievement."
Leitch encourages graduating seniors attending a state school in Illinois to contact his office if they would like to be sent an application for the Illinois General Assembly Scholarship. Applications will be sent out in January, but it is not too early to call to be placed on a list to be sent an application. Students or parents may request an application by calling Rep. Leitch's Peoria Legislative Office at 309-690-7373.
Students may also want to visit ISAC's website for additional information about college financial assistance programs. The site offers career counseling services, a planning timeline, virtual campus tours, and online applications.