Addison Trail names September recipient of 88's Best recognition

Annalise Morrone has been named as Addison Trail’s September recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her academic accomplishments. Morrone, a senior, was recognized during the Sept. 26 District 88 Board of Education meeting.

Morrone has earned an “A” grade in all of her classes during her four years at Addison Trail, and by the end of her senior year, she will have taken 11 honors courses and 14 Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level courses.

Morrone also is involved in many extracurricular sports and activities, including swimming, theatre and band. She is a two-time Illinois High School Association (IHSA) state qualifier in swimming and was recognized as All-Conference her freshman and junior years. However, injury sidelined Morrone temporarily two years ago, and that’s when she discovered theatre. She gained new perspective being away from swimming and learned not everything has to be so fast paced. Theatre allowed her to recognize the benefits of teamwork and leadership and helped her gain a well-rounded high school experience.

“Morrone has been a dedicated member of our Theatre program,” said Anna Jakubka, Addison Trail Theatre Director. “When not swimming, she will often come to our productions and earn hours anyway possible. I admire her ability to work independently, and I often trust her with projects. She takes initiative and models what underclassmen should do in theatre. She is by far one of the few students I can trust to get the job done!”

Morrone has been in Marching Band and Concert Band all four years and is on the Band Board as Treasurer.

“Morrone is a quiet leader,” said Mark Corey, Addison Trail Music Department Chair and Band Director. “Where other students require guidance or specific instructions, she just looks around, sees what needs to be done and does it. As a band officer, she does just that – ensuring things run smoothly in the band room. As a senior snare drummer in the drum line, she is always there to mentor the younger percussionists through her exemplary performance. She doesn't seek the spotlight; her determination to do what is right brings the spotlight to her.”

Morrone’s love of political science – specifically politics – has led her to apply to East Coast schools, and her appreciation and curiosity of different cultures drives her passion to travel and cook. Morrone said growing up in Addison has opened her mind to different cultures and people, and she would like to continue to learn about the world after she graduates.

She plans to apply to many schools, but is focusing on Boston College, Boston University, University of Pennsylvania, The University of Chicago and University of California, Berkeley. She wants to combine her two interests of math and political science and perhaps study economics to maybe one day represent the U.S. as a diplomat. After traveling the world, Morrone would love to open a bakery. She enjoys how the culture of food can bring so many different people together.

• District 88 values the hard work and achievements of students and wants to make sure students are honored and recognized for their accomplishments. The District 88 Board of Education and administration created the 88’s Best award to highlight students’ success. That award recognizes nine Addison Trail and nine Willowbrook students each school year for reaching their personal best in various areas. Students are honored during a District 88 Board of Education meeting in the areas of academics, highly improved performance, extracurricular activities, service work or performing arts/electives.