Hononegah’s Kylie Simpson Named to 2026 IHSA All-State Academic Team
“The students named to the IHSA All-State Academic Team embody what education-based athletics and activities are all about,” IHSA Assistant Executive Director Stacy Lambert said
The Illinois High School Association announced its 26-member 2026 IHSA All-State Academic Team on Wednesday, honoring some of the state’s top student-athletes for their excellence in the classroom, in competition, and in their communities. Among the honorees is Hononegah senior Kylie Simpson, a multi-sport standout who continues to elevate the Indians’ tradition of academic and athletic achievement.
The All-State Academic Team will be formally recognized at a banquet in Bloomington on Sunday, April 12.
“The students named to the IHSA All-State Academic Team embody what education-based athletics and activities are all about,” IHSA Assistant Executive Director Stacy Lambert said in the announcement. “They have challenged themselves in the classroom, committed to their teams and organizations, and found ways to give back to their schools and communities. Excelling at such a high level in all of these areas requires discipline and heart, and we are incredibly proud to recognize them as representatives of the IHSA and the state of Illinois.”
Every IHSA member school was invited to nominate one female and one male student for the prestigious statewide honor. Nominees were required to hold at least a 3.50 GPA on a 4.0 scale after seven semesters, participate in two or more IHSA-sponsored sports or activities during each of the past two years, and demonstrate exemplary citizenship.
A committee of principals, athletic directors, and activities directors evaluated the statewide pool. One male and one female representative were selected from each of the seven IHSA Board of Directors Divisions, with the remaining 12 spots filled by at-large selections.
Simpson earned her place among Illinois’ elite through a résumé that reflects both versatility and commitment. She has competed in cross country, basketball, and track and field. On the basketball court, Simpson has been a defensive catalyst and veteran leader for the Indians, helping set the tone with her energy and poise. In cross country and track, she has been a standout performer whose work ethic has long been praised by coaches and teammates.
Off the playing field, Simpson’s academic record and community involvement strengthened her nomination, showcasing the balance and drive that define the IHSA’s highest academic honor.
Her selection places her among the top student-athletes in Illinois for the Class of 2026 — a distinction that reflects not only her achievements, but also the standard she has helped set at Hononegah.
See the complete All State Academic Team Here.
Thank you Crystal Barnes Partlow for use of the incredible pictures. See the complete portfolio HERE.
