Home Β» News Β» Iola-Scandi News Β» Prahl receives Kohl Scholarship

Prahl receives Kohl Scholarship

Iola student to attend UW-Stevens Point

By Jane Myhra


McKenna Prahl, of Iola, recently received a Kohl Excellence Scholarship.

β€œI was estatic and honored to be selected,” she said.

Prahl was awarded the scholarship from Herb Kohl at a luncheon in early April.

β€œHe is so inspirational,” she said of Kohl.

Prahl was especially honored that her parents and her high school principal, Sara Anderson, attended the scholarship banquet.

β€œI was proud that Mrs. Anderson made a special trip just to support me,” Prahl said. β€œShe has been a large part of my success in high school and in planning my future.”

The daughter of Bob and Julie Prahl is currently a senior at Iola-Scandinavia High School. She plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

At college, Prahl plans to major in elementary education with minors in Spanish and special education.

Her decision to become a teacher was reinforced in Stacy Bestul’s Assisted Childcare Teacher class. During the class, students worked with I-S kindergarten classes.

β€œI love kids. I love being able to educate our future generations,” Prahl said. β€œA teacher plays such a vital role in their development and is someone they will remember forever. I still remember all of my teachers – they were so inspiring and I want to be like them.”
Her mother, Julie, is her role model.

β€œShe is always there to help with anything I need and with decisions,” Prahl said. β€œShe always supports me with everything, and in a way she is my best friend.”

What she really admires is how her mother is successful in a career, yet β€œshe always has enough time for each of her four children.”

Prahl’s extracurricular activities include Student Council, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, volleyball, basketball, track, softball and manager of the varsity football team, all while maintaining High Honors. She is also active in her church and volunteers at the Iola Car Show and Lioness Easter Party.

Established by Herb Kohl in 1990, the Kohl Educational Foundation Scholarship and Fellowship Program have provided $10.2 million to Wisconsin educators, students and schools.

Scroll to Top