Shafer honored by Governor for academic excellence ...

Bailey Shafer, a graduating senior at Waukon High School, was recognized by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and Lt. Governor Adam Gregg for outstanding academic achievement at the 19th Annual Governor’s Scholar Recognition Ceremony April 25 at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines. The statewide program, sponsored by the Iowa Governor’s Office, Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and its title sponsor the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), honored 424 high school seniors from across Iowa.

“We all recognize the need for supporting youth, because they hold the keys of Iowa’s continued innovation and economic success,” said IFBF President Craig Hill. Each high school was invited to select a senior student with the highest academic ranking, based on grade point average for their first seven semesters. Students selected for the award also had the opportunity to recognize their favorite/most influential teacher and will receive a photo plaque of their meeting with Governor Reynolds and Lt. Governor Gregg.

“The principles learned through academic success, like those learned from participation in education-based activities, help develop outstanding leaders and citizens,” said IHSAA Executive Director Tom Keating. Ninety-eight percent of those recognized also participate in extra-curricular school activities, with more than 75 percent participating in at least one interscholastic sport. More than 63 percent of the group plan to continue their education in Iowa. Submitted photo.