30 scholars were honored as Charles O. Austin Jr. Scholars at the September 10, 2024 Board of Education Meeting.
The scholars received certificates of recognition for completing six semesters of study at Rock Island High School and earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Along with the certificates of recognition, the scholar's picture will be displayed in the front lobby at the high school.
Scholars presented with the designation are: Bibi Barikzay, Madison Carroll, Max Davis, Zoe Ehlers, Alexis Gahimbare, Joslynn Henderson, Mia G Hixson, Stella L Houk, Benjamin J Huisman, Mu P K'Tooe Soe, Brody Lenger, Jessica Lopez, Isabella Marceleno, Kevin Mayares Jr., Lillian McDaniel, Poe Soo Paw, Grayson Perion, Zee Phares, Eh Eh Poe, Linda Rose, Olivia Samuelson, Khu Say Shee, Mylie Shook, Beline Shukuru, Braden Smith, Sophia Stout, Riziki Venansia, Tway Tway Ye, Elaina Adlfinger, and Carson Banks.
The designation was established back in 1998 by the RIMSD #41 Board of Education in honor of Charles O. Austin, Jr., who served RIMSD for 14 years as Rock Island High School Principal and for 7 years as Superintendent of Schools. Austin demanded excellence, was a role model for achievement, and directly impacted the lives of thousands of our communities' youth.