JACKSONVILLE — Caitlin Smith, a 2015 Routt Catholic High School graduate, is one of the 200 selected members of the Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Class of 2015.

Smith is the daughter of Andy and Lori Smith of Jacksonville and plans to attend Illinois State University this fall.

Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois is a highly competitive program that seeks the best and brightest of Illinois youth interested in a teaching career. Those selected receive advanced teaching preparation through summer institutes in Chicago which gives them early practice and exposure to the art of teaching. Over 1,600 nominations were received this year for the program and the selection process is evident of the excellence of Scholars chosen. School officials said Smith's selection marks a "notable achievement" for both Smith and for Routt Catholic High School.

The Golden Apple Scholar ceremony was held last month at DePaul University in Chicago.