Klein ISD -

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a prestigious academic competition that recognizes and awards high-achieving high school students. Based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT, students may qualify as Commended Scholars, Semifinalists, or Finalists, with top finalists earning scholarships sponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

This year, several Klein ISD students were named National Merit Commended Scholars and Semifinalists.

“I am so proud of these outstanding scholars who have worked tirelessly to achieve this remarkable academic success,” Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown said. “These students exemplify Klein ISD’s tradition of academic excellence and demonstrate the power of hard work, grit, and determination.”

The application process for students is rigorous. Semifinalists who are considered for the Merit Scholarship award must fulfill several requirements to move on to be finalists. Students must have an exemplary academic standing, obtain an endorsement from a high school official, submit an essay, and provide their SAT and ACT scores.

“It’s an honor to celebrate these academically talented students,” Advanced Academic Services Director Kathleen Plott said. “Their dedication and perseverance in pursuing academic rigor have led to this outstanding achievement, a nationally recognized distinction that is truly well-deserved.”

Students who have qualified for the semifinalist standing represent less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors, including the highest-scoring entrants in each state. All Merit Scholar winners are selected based on their skills, accomplishments, and potential to be successful in their post-high school studies.

This tradition of excellence in Klein ISD continues with 43 students honored as National Merit Commended Scholars and 15 students recognized as Semifinalists. Semifinalists will now compete for one of 6,930 National Merit Scholarships, collectively worth nearly $26 million.

Congratulations to each of these gifted scholars! We are honored to have students like you who showcase what it means to live out your purpose.

National Merit Semifinalists

Commended Students