Vienna ranks second with Illinois State Scholars out of 44 southern high schools

Last year the Class of 2016, based solely on ACT scores, gave Vienna a second place ranking out of the 44 high schools located in Southern Illinois. This year’s Class of 2017 has met the challenge and has also maintained that second place ranking, as measured by Illiniois State Scholar.

Superintendent Joshua W. Stafford shared, “Our entire community should be proud of these students and this accomplishment! For a school our size to be second to Carbondale and then to have out preformed 42 other area high schools is outstanding!”

Carbondale, as shown on the state report card has demographics of lower poverty, higher income, more per pupil expenditures and various other indicators that would be in their favor over Vienna.

The following 14 senior Vienna High School students were selected as Illinois State Scholars:  Sydney Charles, Vienna; Alena Cowsert, Cypress; Remington Fisher, Grantsburg; Catilyne Green, Buncombe; Makayla Holder, Creal Springs; Rachel Kindhart, Grantsburg; Hannah Loyd, Vienna; Abigail McCall, Vienna; Tia McLaughlin, Vienna; Abigail Montgomery, Vienna; Emily Scruggs, Ozark; Rian Shaneyfelt, Vienna; McKenzie Smith, Vienna; and Chloe Wright, New Burnside.

A table listing of each school demonstrates the number of State Scholars from each school divided into the total enrollment which establishes the ranking.

Stafford also said, “This accomplishment is yet another demonstration of what it is that our staff, community, and most of all our students show up to do each day, and that is to becoming ‘life long learners.’ It is exciting to see and be involved with such a great school! It is also exciting to celebrate what is an achievement for the entire community!”

The board of education will recognize these students during the January board meeting.