District 99 Students Earn National German Exam Awards

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Eight Community High School District 99 students were recently honored with awards based on their performance on the National German Exam.

The following students were recognized:

• Aidan Coyne of Downers Grove South
• William Knudsen of Downers Grove North
• Vivian Lane of Downers Grove South
• Lauren Norkus of Downers Grove South
• Johanna Rodeck of Downers Grove South
• Nicklas Schmidt-Bailey of Downers Grove South
• Ensara Sejko of Downers Grove South
• Nolan Witt of Downers Grove South

Sejko, who earned a gold medal, advanced to the regional level of the National German Exam competition.

“The National German Exam is a rigorous test including listening and viewing segments, which help students to develop competence in communicating effectively and with cultural competence,” Downers Grove North High School German teacher Gunde Iwersen-Burrit said in a statement. “Taking this test shows commitment to the language and dedication to continue to learn and grow.”

Downers Grove South High School German teacher Sarah Moreno added, "Despite a different testing process due to COVID, students made the extra effort to prove their language skills in this national exam. We are incredibly proud of our students, not only for taking this exam in an online setting, but earning this prestigious recognition."