Published on May 1, 2026 12:46 pm
Last Updated on May 1, 2026 12:46 pm
Jared Klingler
The Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) is pleased to announce the 2026 Scholar Attitude Award winner.
Effingham Junior High School’s Jared Klingler was recognized and awarded a medallion and a mini trophy at the IESA Celebration of Excellence April 29.
A panel of judges consisting of coaches, athletic directors, principals, and officials, reviewed the applications and selected students representing 15 different division groups. To be considered, a student from an IESA member school must be of eighth grade status, have a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, have participated in at least one IESA activity during each year of their two-year junior high career, and has demonstrated outstanding citizenship during their junior high tenure. In addition, each student is required to submit an essay titled “The Value of Sportsmanship and the Lessons I have Learned from Participating in Athletics and Activities”
“Klingler has excelled as a three-sport athlete during his Mustang career, competing in cross country, track, and basketball,” said EJHS Athletic Director Vince Rohr.
“His accomplishments in cross country are especially remarkable, as he is a sectional champion, a two-time state medalist, and the holder of the Mustang boys cross country school record with an outstanding two-mile time of 10:43.
“Just as impressive as his athletic achievements is his dedication in the classroom. Despite the demands of year-round training and competition, Jared has consistently maintained at least a 3.5 GPA, demonstrating exceptional discipline, work ethic, and commitment both on the course and in the classroom.”