Last week, Cicero District 99 proudly hosted our annual Outstanding Student Awards Ceremony at Unity Junior High School — an evening dedicated to celebrating something truly extraordinary: the incredible young people who represent they very best of our District.

From grades 2 through 8, just ONE student per grade level at each school is selected for this honor.

That means only 55 students where chosen out of more than 8,500 students across District 99.

Let that sink in. It is exceptional.

These students were nominated by their teachers because they consistently demonstrate the qualities that define true excellence:
✨ High or improved academic achievement
✨ Community service
✨ Volunteerism inside and outside of school
✨ Leadership qualities
✨ Positive behavior 
✨ Excellent attendance 

These students are not only succeeding in school — they are becoming the kind of people who will make a lasting difference in the world.

Surrounded by their proud families, dedicated teachers, District leadership, and Board of Education members Derek Dominick and Lisa Barrera, our Outstanding Student Award winners were honored with a special dinner and a celebration worthy of their achievement.

To our students: we see your hard work. We see your kindness. We see your leadership. We see the example you set for others.

You inspire us. You make our schools stronger. You make our community proud. And you remind us all that greatness starts with everyday choices: showing up, working hard, helping others, and leading with heart.

Congratulations to our 2026 Outstanding Student Award Winners! You are the pride of D99, and your future is incredibly bright! 💙