Twelve seniors from Walnut High School have been distinguished as 2020 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. Congratulations to the following teens who have been recognized for demonstrating exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies.
Walnut High Principal Ryan Maine and school leaders surprised the dozen top scoring seniors with the announcement during classes Wednesday morning. Each teen took a moment to pose for a snapshot with their congratulatory letter and then came together during lunchtime for a group photo.
“It’s exciting getting to know these amazing Mustangs,” said Maine who took the helm at July.
“This is a special group of students who are involved in Performing Arts, IB, AP, and currently lead multiple clubs on campus. It is a privilege watching their stories unfold as they pursue their dreams.”
More than 1.6 million students entered the Merit Program as juniors by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. High scorers were designated semifinalists, representing less than 1% of the state’s graduating class. In total, just over 16,000 talented seniors qualified nationwide in the 65th annual scholarship program. These academically talented students will continue to compete for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships that will be offered in the spring.
Pictured below: Kevin Chen, Yaoyue Jiang, Denise Kao, William Lin, Jocelyn Lu, Teresa Maung, Chamine Tran, Amber Tsao, Wyan Wan, Evelyn Wu, Tyler Xu, Melody Yu.
