Addison Trail names April recipient of 88's Best recognition

Ambar Rivera has been named as Addison Trail’s April recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding academic accomplishments. Rivera, a senior, was recognized during the April 10 District 88 Board of Education meeting. To watch her 88’s Best presentation, go to https://www.dupage88.net/site/page/6420.

Rivera has earned a grade of A in every class she has taken at Addison Trail. She has completed 11 Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level courses and nine Honors courses.

“It comes as no surprise to me that Rivera is being recognized for District 88's Best in the category of academics,” said Aileen Sullivan, Addison Trail science teacher. “As a freshman taking biology honors, it was always clear how dedicated Rivera was to her studies. She had a self-motivation about her that was contagious. She made her successful grades look easy when, in reality, she worked very hard to earn her high grades. In addition, Rivera is humble when it comes to her academic excellence and is always willing to lend a helping hand. I am proud of her achievements and wish her the best with her future endeavors.”

Addison Trail Social Studies Department Chair Brendan Lyons agreed.

“It was a pleasure teaching Rivera,” Lyons said. “She displayed all of the attributes we look for in a student in a social studies course. She was an active learner, dependable, conscientious and displayed respect for her teacher and her peers on a daily basis. She is truly a worthy recipient of the honor of being District 88's Best.”

Rivera’s academic achievements also include membership in the National Honor Society, being named as an Illinois State Scholar and making the Distinction Honor Roll all four years of her high school career. Beyond the classroom, Rivera has been a member of Student Council and Psychology Club, she is a Blazer Ambassador and she has served her community in a variety of ways. However, most of her commitment to extracurricular activities is with track. Before high school, Rivera was never really involved in any sports or clubs – but she decided to join the Girls Track Team her freshman year, and she never looked back. Track has helped her to develop self-confidence and meet new friends. Rivera has served as a designated captain at times and has helped develop workouts for team members.

Rivera’s track coach, Ann Peters, said Rivera’s positive personality is what makes her stand out.

“Rivera is a team player and steps up to lead and mentor the younger and more inexperienced girls,” Peters said. “She has such a great attitude! She is very grounded and in tune with her own abilities. I wish I could clone her. She doesn't have a negative or selfish bone in her body!”

Rivera plans to attend University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to study chemical engineering.

• 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. Recipients are honored during a District 88 Board of Education meeting in one of the following areas: academics, highly improved performance, extracurricular activities, service work or performing arts/electives.