Mattoon Middle School is proud to announce that eighth-grader Owen Nolte has been nominated for the IESA Scholar Attitude Award. This honor recognizes exceptional student-athletes who not only excel academically but also demonstrate outstanding sportsmanship and leadership.
Owen, a dedicated student-athlete, has consistently maintained a high GPA while actively participating in both baseball and basketball. His coaches and teachers praise his positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to inspire his teammates. Beyond the court, Owen is an active member of the National Junior Honor Society, Math Jack Club, and Travel Baseball. His parents are Travis and Jennifer Nolte.
From Jonathan Hauter, IESA Assistant Executive Director: "The IESA Scholar Attitude Award honors those students who have maintained a high academic standard while pursuing participation in their school community through IESA activities. We would like to congratulate the selected students on their focus, passion, and pursuit. We look forward to the leadership they will provide in the future and we are pleased to be a part of their journey."
To be eligible for this award, a student must meet the following criteria:
Be an eighth-grade student
Maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA
Participate in at least one IESA activity in both seventh and eighth grade
Demonstrate outstanding citizenship
Submit a typed essay on "The Value of Sportsmanship"
A panel of judges will select 15 winners from across the state, with one winner representing each IESA Board Division. Mattoon is part of Division L.
Mattoon has a proud history of producing exceptional Scholar-Athlete Award winners. Previous recipients from Division L include:
Zach Smith (2015)
Bella Smith (2018)
Piper Sanders (2020)
Owen will now begin the application process, which includes submitting his essay and letters of recommendation. The winners will be announced in April 2025 and honored at the IESA Awards Banquet Celebration of Excellence in Bloomington.
We wish Owen the best of luck as he competes for this prestigious award!