144 Mokena Junior High School students have earned national recognition for their achievements on the PreATC 8/9 exam.
The PreACT Rising Stars program honors students who score in the top half of all U.S. students who take the PreACT 8/9 Assessment. The exam provides a preview of the ACT test experience, along with a highly reliable prediction of how students might perform on the ACT once in high school.
“Early insights into college and career readiness are essential for helping students stay on track and feel supported in their goals,” said Catherine Hofmann, senior vice president of government and public relations at ACT. “The PreACT 8/9 and PreACT Rising Stars program gives educators and families a meaningful way to understand students’ strengths, celebrate their achievements, and guide them toward informed decisions about their futures.”
Mokena Junior High School Principal Luke Munch echoed those priorities. “At Mokena Junior High, we pride ourselves on providing a high-quality education to all of our students. Our teachers do an exceptional job of preparing our students for whatever the future may hold. This is not possible without the continued support of our staff, parents and Board of Education. I am confident that all of our students at MJHS are headed in a positive direction, bound to accomplish great things in both high school and beyond.”
The PreACT Rising Stars program recognizes students at three levels:
Distinguished Scholars Award, recognizing students who score in the top 3% of test takers by U.S. Rank
Rising Scholars Award, for students who score in the top 4-10% of test takers by U.S. Rank
Early Scholars Award, honoring students who score in the top 11-50% of test takers by U.S. Rank
At Mokena Junior High, the total number of students who achieved each of these recognitions includes:
Distinguished Scholars Award, received by 12 students (featured in photo).
Rising Scholars Award, received by 29 students.
Early Scholars Award, received by 103 students.
Assistant Superintendent of Instruction for Mokena School District 159, Dr. Kristin Johnson, shared “We are thrilled to see over 80% of our eighth graders receive this award. It speaks volumes to the work of our teachers, staff, parents, and Board of Education in ensuring our students have a strong foundation to build from to reach their future goals and aspirations. We are very proud of each of our award winners and look forward to seeing their continued successes as they move into high school.”