Press Release

NORTHLAKE, Ill. —Students from Proviso Township High Schools District 209 were recognized for their character, leadership and service at the School Citizen of the Year (SCOTY) Awards Ceremony, hosted by the West40 Intermediate Service Center.

The SCOTY Award honors students who demonstrate exceptional character in their everyday actions and serve as role models within their school communities. While academic achievement and participation in activities are considered, the selection process places a stronger emphasis on qualities such as leadership, responsibility and respect for others. Each school develops its own criteria, with principals and staff selecting one student annually to receive the award.

This year’s Proviso honorees include:

• JaNyla Crenshaw, 12th grade, Proviso East High School, nominated by Principal Rodney Hull.
  “JaNyla has worked hard to maintain her Top 10 status while dealing with some adversity that would have derailed most students,” Hull said.

• Emmanuel Arreola, 12th grade, Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy, nominated by Principal Dr. Jorge J. Sanchez.
  “Emmanuel demonstrates exceptional character through compassion, leadership and service,” Sanchez said. “He cares deeply about his community and has actively stood against injustices faced by migrant communities. By offering solidarity and support, he exemplifies empathy, courage and a strong commitment to uplifting others.”

• Sescie Lee Cortez-Avalos, 12th grade, Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy, nominated by Principal Dr. Jorge J. Sanchez.
  “Sescie is deeply proud of her culture and demonstrated strong leadership by helping organize a Latino assembly that honored heritage and community,” Sanchez said. “She is extremely kind, hardworking and humble, consistently showing respect for others and a genuine commitment to celebrating diversity.”

• Maggie Vargas, 12th grade, Proviso West High School, nominated by teacher Rachel Thomas.
  “Maggie Vargas has been in several of my classes since her sophomore year, and she truly embodies what leadership looks like,” Thomas said. “She is not only a high-ranking member of ROTC, but she is also a leader in the classroom. Her positive attitude, drive and grades are just a few of the many reasons why she should be recognized.”

• Mariah Wilson, 12th grade, Proviso West High School, nominated by Department Chair and math teacher Kristina Sauter.
  “Mariah Wilson is the best representation of our Panther School Citizen of the Year,” Sauter said. “She consistently exemplifies integrity, respect and responsibility, supports her peers and actively contributes to building a positive and inclusive school community. Her leadership, resilience and commitment to service make her a true role model.”

District officials commended the students for embodying the values of their schools and making meaningful contributions to their communities.

“The SCOTY Award recognizes students who lead not only through achievement, but through character,” said Superintendent Krish Mohip. “These honorees represent the very best of Proviso Township High Schools.”