(April 2025) — Officials with the Hawkeye 10 Conference have recognized the outstanding achievements of its students, by announcing this year’s Academic Team and Character Award recipients. Atlantic High School Principal Heather MCKay said the honors celebrate students who have demonstrated academic excellence, personal integrity, and a commitment to the pillars of character.

Academic Team Selection Process

The selection for the prestigious Hawkeye 10 Academic Team is the result of a comprehensive and consistent nomination process led by high school principals across the conference. Students were identified based on their exceptional academic performance, qualifying through one or more of the following criteria:

• ISASP Scores meeting or exceeding advanced thresholds:
  • ELA (Grade 11): 660+
  • Math (Grade 11): 675+
  • Science (Grade 10): 656+
• ACT Score of 29 or higher

Eligible students were then invited to complete a formal application, highlighting not only their academic success but also their character, leadership, and contributions to their school communities. Principals reviewed each submission for accuracy and completeness, awarding up to four points in the character section. Final selection was determined through an anonymous committee review using a standardized rubric to ensure fairness and consistency.

Character Award Recipients

Character Award recipients

In addition to the Academic Team, each school in the conference also selected one student to receive the Hawkeye 10 Character Award, a distinct honor recognizing students who embody the Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. Each recipient was chosen at the discretion of their school for their exemplary behavior and contributions to the school climate and community.

Celebrating Excellence

Academic Team

The Hawkeye 10 Conference remains committed to celebrating both academic achievement and strong moral character. These recognitions highlight the importance of well-rounded excellence and serve as a testament to the high standards upheld by students and schools throughout the conference.

Character Award recipient Morgan Botos, of Atlantic

Academic Team Member J. Molina, of Atlantic

Congratulations to all honorees on this well-deserved recognition!

Academic Team Members

Character Award Recipients