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In November of each year, ISAC announces the State Scholar Finalists. Students from nearly every high school in Illinois compete in the program. State Scholars can be found on the campuses of nearly 200 public and private institutions of higher education in Illinois. The combination of exemplary college entrance examination scores and record high school achievement indicate an especially high potential for success in college. To be honored as a State Scholar in Illinois is an outstanding accomplishment that will be a highlight of the recipient’s academic record. No financial assistance is awarded by ISAC through this program.
Selection procedures are documented within this section, including the State Scholar Program Formula that is used as part of the selection process. A sample Announcement Roster for State Scholar Finalists, as well as cover letter and State Scholar Program reminders that are mailed to high school counselors as part of the announcement packet are also available. For each student listed on the Announcement Roster, a corresponding Certificate of Achievement is included within the packet of materials. Typically, the Certificates are presented to Scholars during a high school honors ceremony, but may be distributed based on the preferences of the high school. A congratulatory letter is sent directly to each student who is designated as a State Scholar Finalist.
ISAC also assists Regional Offices, as well as high school counselors, in notifying local media of student accomplishments. A sample press release is provided to assist counselors with acknowledgement of State Scholars. Counselors may simply complete those parts of the press release with the pertinent information and the names of individual scholars and send it to local and community newspapers, and radio and television stations. Students can be recognized locally for their academic achievement. In accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974, if listings are sent to the media, Social Security Numbers must not be included.
A separate cover letter is sent to high schools that receive only a roster listing students who were considered but were not selected as eligible finalists. If the high school counselor feels that a student should have been designated as a State Scholar and was not, refer to the page within this section about appeals.
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