MACON, Ill. — Meridian High School is proud to announce that ten members of the Class of 2026 have been recognized as Illinois State Scholars by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
The honored students are Christian Espiritu, Ethan Mendenhall, Alayna Bickel, Cierra Bliesner, Katelyn Clapp, Grace Gorden, Ryan Hubner, McKenna Koehler, Carson Ryan, and Ashley Schelling.
The Illinois State Scholar program recognizes high school seniors for their exceptional academic achievement. Selection is based on a combination of standardized test scores and sixth-semester class rank, placing recipients among the top students in the state.
“We are incredibly proud of these students for their hard work and commitment to excellence,” said Eric Hurelbrink, principal of Meridian High School. “Being named an Illinois State Scholar is a reflection of years of dedication and effort both in and out of the classroom. These students represent the very best of Meridian High School.”
Illinois State Scholars represent approximately the top ten percent of high school seniors statewide. For Meridian, having 10 recipients is representative of 15% of the senior class. Each scholar receives a congratulatory letter and a Certificate of Achievement from ISAC in recognition of this prestigious accomplishment.
Meridian High School congratulates these ten students on their outstanding achievement and wishes them continued success as they prepare for graduation and their future academic pursuits.