U-46 honors Special Olympics gold medal swimmer

Posted September 23, 2025 4:43 pm

By Tara Burghart, Elgin Area School District U-46

The Elgin Area School District U-46 board recently honored a student for his first-place finishes in swimming events at the Summer Games of the Illinois Special Olympics.

Nathan Scholl, a junior at Bartlett High School, brought home gold medals in both the 25-meter backstroke and the 25-meter freestyle from the statewide competition held in Bloomington-Normal in June. Nathan competes for the Blue Stars, U-46’s Special Olympics team.

“Beyond his incredible athletic talent, Nathan shines as a true team player, always cheering on his teammates, lifting others up, and showing what great sportsmanship looks like,” said Blue Stars coach Brooke McGrath. “His determination, kindness, and friendship make him not just an outstanding athlete, but an amazing person to have on our team.”

Nathan Scholl, a Bartlett High junior who competed in the Summer Games of the Illinois Special Olympics, with the Blue Stars coaches Oscar Chavez, Brooke McGrath and Lorena Torres-Castillo. Courtesy of Elgin Area School District U-46

The board recognized Nathan with an “Accent on Achievement” certificate during its meeting on Monday, Sept. 22.

“This is fun and exciting,” Nathan said after receiving the Accent. “It’s such an honor to be here.”

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