Eight students from Decorah High School–Grace Blikre, Carson Bohner, Oliver Brummel, McKenzie Riley, Lily Sandhorst, Anastasia Simon, Jack Sovern, and Grant Zilka–have been selected as College Board National Recognition Program awardees. All recipients received the National Rural and Small Town Award (NRSTA), and Zilka also received recognition in the First Generation category.

These students earned this recognition because of their academic achievements in school and outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT®, PSAT™ 10, and/or AP® Exams. They’ve accomplished these milestones during a demanding period of their high school career.

“We’re thrilled that our students have earned this recognition. We are very proud of them for their achievements in their classrooms and on College Board assessments,” said Pat Trewin, DHS guidance counselor. “These programs help students from underrepresented backgrounds stand out to colleges during admissions. Some colleges will offer scholarships to students based on this honor.”

“We want to honor the hard work of these students through the College Board National Recognition Programs. This program creates a way for colleges and scholarship programs to connect directly with underrepresented students who they are hoping to reach,” said Tarlin Ray, College Board senior vice president of BigFuture. “We hope the award winners and their families celebrate this prestigious honor.”

Photo ID (l-r):

Front row: Anastasia Simon, Grace Blikre, McKenzie Riley

Back row: Grant Zilka, Lily Sandhorst, Jack Sovern, Oliver Brummel, Carson Bohner