March 28, 2024

Two Red Birds fly high academically

The class of 2013 has continued to leave a defining mark on Newton Senior High School.

This past weekend, seniors Kora Scotton and Jake Hill were honored at The Governor’s Scholar Recognition Program.

According to information from the Iowa High School Athletic Association:

"The Governor's Scholar Recognition Program will recognize senior students who are the top academic achievers in the State of Iowa. This program is a joint effort between the Governor's Office of the State of Iowa, the Iowa High School Athletic Association and, its title sponsor, Iowa Farm Bureau."

The ceremony was at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines, and Gov. Terry Branstad as well as Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds spoke.

Students were nominated by guidance counselors at their respective schools. The 64 largest high schools in the state are each allowed to nominate two students, while the remaining schools may nominate one.

While the recognition has no monetary value, it still is a very prestigious honor. Every student that attended got to shake hands and pose for a photo with the governor and was allowed to bring a teacher who inspired him or her.

Scotton chose Sarah Patterson and Hill chose Chris Forsyth. This was the fourth time that Patterson was chosen to attend by a student.

“She is one of my swim coaches, and I also had her for AP writing, and I’ve known her for a really long time,” Scotton said. “She’s been one of the teachers who has helped me become who I am today. I really respect her and how great of a teacher and help she is.”

Hill’s mother, Colette, explained why she thought he chose Forsyth.

“Mrs. Forsyth has made him feel so comfortable, and he has so enjoyed her AP chemistry class,” Colette said. “It wouldn’t surprise me if he ends up in a field of science from her encouragement.”

Both Hill and Scotton are very high academic achievers in school and compete in multiple activities. Hill plays basketball and baseball and also participates in chorus. Scotton swims and plays tennis, is the NHS Student Council vice president, and is in the band.

Both know where they want to go to school. However, they differ in what they want to do.

“I’m going to Iowa State (University),” Hill said. “I’m undecided on my major right now. It’ll be kind of a challenge the first year of college. I’m just looking forward to it.”

“I’m going to Central College for athletic training,” Scotton said. “My dad is an athletic trainer and physical therapist, and it’s been cool growing up around that. I’ve been around it so much that I appreciate what it does and how it helps people.”

The students and their families seemed delighted by the ceremony. Scotton’s father, Matt, used getting to the ceremony as extra motivation to finish a grueling bike race over the weekend, and Colette said how proud she was multiple times.

“I feel really honored to be selected as one of the Governor’s Scholars,” Scotton said. “When I was at the ceremony, it was really neat to see all of the other students from around the state. It was a cool experience.”

Staff writer Ty Rushing may be contacted at (641)-792-3121, Ext. 426, or trushing@newtondailynews.com