Horizon Science Academy McKinley Park might have ushered in an exciting new era for its high schoolers this year but its level of academic excellence has remained the same.
The latest achievement for the No. 1 charter school in Illinois came in the form of student council class president Gracie Griggs being named Outstanding Senior by the Illinois Network of Charter Schools earlier this month. This is the fourth year in a row an HSA McKinley Park student has taken home the award.
The recognition from INCS also comes with a $1,000 scholarship that’ll go towards Griggs’s college tuition next year.
“Being selected for the INCS Scholarship means so much more to me than just receiving financial support,” Griggs said. “It is a recognition of all the hard work I have put in both inside and outside of school and sports. This honor reassures me that my dedication as a student, athlete, daughter, and role model has truly made a difference.
“I am deeply grateful and proud to be acknowledged for my efforts and commitment to the community.”
The nominees considered for the award had to check off three boxes of criteria to win. According to INCS’s website, each student must demonstrate leadership at their school, show a commitment to their school through participation in various groups, clubs, or advocacy efforts and showcase strong academic achievement.
Given her dedication to her schoolwork and building a strong high school culture at HSA, Griggs was an obvious choice. On top of being student council class president, the senior is a three-sport athlete, a member of the National Honor Society and a gold medal recipient at the Illinois Junior Academy of Science state science fair. As if she wasn't busy enough, she has also served as a fifth grade student teacher before HSA McKinley Park split into two campuses ahead of the 2025-26 school year.
Griggs’s accolades are impressive on paper but it’s who she is as a person that makes her stand out amongst her peers.
“Gracie is a special person who has made a significant impact at our school,” said Griggs’s softball coach JD Koziarski. “She is bright, driven, hard-working, and mature beyond her years. While I am sad that her time with us is coming to an end, I am excited to see what she will do next.”
Concept Schools wants to congratulate Griggs and HSA McKinley Park High for this wonderful achievement.
