The Pekin Rotary Club proudly hosted its Annual 8th Grade Scholastic Awards Program on Wednesday evening at Pekin Community High School, recognizing the top 10% of 8th grade students from area schools for their outstanding academic achievement.

This longstanding community tradition celebrates excellence in education and encourages young scholars to continue striving for success. Surrounded by family, educators, and Rotary Club members, each honored student was presented with a certificate of achievement, a medallion, and recognized on stage.

Schools represented in this year’s program included Broadmoor Junior High School, Edison Junior High School, Good Shepherd Lutheran School, Rankin Elementary School, Georgetowne Middle School, St. Joseph Catholic School, and South Pekin Grade School.

“The Pekin Rotary Club is committed to supporting education and recognizing our community’s future leaders,” said Leonard Ealey, District 108 Superintendent and Pekin Rotarian. “These students have shown exceptional dedication and promise, and we are proud to honor their hard work.”

In addition to individual recognition, the event featured remarks from Dr. Danielle Owens, District 303 Superintendent and fellow Rotarian, who highlighted the importance of academic excellence, community involvement, and leadership. For many students, this marks their first major academic honor and serves as a stepping stone into a bright high school future.

The Scholastic Awards Program is one of the many ways the Pekin Rotary Club lives out its mission of “Service Above Self” by investing in the next generation.

Congratulations to the Class of 2029’s top scholars!