Local students shine in the spotlight

Their impressive test scores, GPAs and outstanding community involvement may be what got them named to the 2008 Daily Herald Academic Team, but most impressive was how they all managed to find time to stop and be recognized.

High school graduates from four teams -- Northwest suburbs, DuPage, Lake and Fox Valley -- were recognized by the Daily Herald Monday at a reception in their honor. The newspaper launched the initiative in 2002, and recognizes 40 local students.

"It was a wonderful experience, a great way to recognize what I have done and what surrounding teams have done," Marietta Smith of Prospect High School said.

Smith, a four-year, three-sport athlete, ranks number one in her class of 513. Smith plans to study neuroscience and medicine.

"It's always impressive to see such an outstanding group of young people," John Lampinen, senior vice president and editor of the Daily Herald said.

This is the seventh year of the award in which 92 schools are invited to submit two students for consideration. The winners are picked by teams of judges who do not know the student's name or school.

"Their academic achievements are stunning. It's a reinforcement of the great community of young people we have," Lampinen said.

Students received a certificate and medals with their names engraved on them.