Classes at Chicagoland Jewish High School in Deerfield may have just started, but already the school’s students are scoring high.

Congratulations and mazal tov to CJHS juniors Benji Fleischacker (of Evanston) and Naomi Michael (of Highland Park), winners of the 2010 American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholarship Exam! Fleischacker placed first in the competition, taking home the grand scholarship award of $5,0000, and Michael placed fourth, taking home the $1,500 award. Sponsored by the ACS Chicago Section, the chemistry competition is held annually for specially-nominated Chicago area students enrolled in first year high school chemistry courses. The scholarship winners are to use their award money in tuition to further their studies in chemical sciences.

Both Fleischacker and Michael expressed gratitude for their Chemistry teacher, Mrs. Ann Levinson, who nominated them for the competition and mentored them throughout their rigorous studies.

Special thanks also goes to the ACS Chicago Section in allowing CJHS students to take the exam a day earlier, since it was scheduled on the Jewish day of Sabbath.

Now entering its 10th year, Chicagoland Jewish High School is a co-ed, college-preparatory high school committed to academic excellence. The dual curriculum combines a first-class general studies education with a comprehensive Jewish studies education, supplemented by strong athletic and fine-arts programs, and numerous extra-curricular, social, and leadership opportunities. Enrollment at CJHS has reached an all-time high with over 160 students representing over 20 communities. Its graduates are accepted into the finest colleges and universities, in this country and in Israel. For more information about CJHS, visit www.cjhs.org or contact Michael Chefitz at mchefitz@cjhs.org.