New record set four years in a row
It’s a record again for the fourth year in a row.
Last week, Arlington ISD celebrated 206 students who achieved either National Merit Semifinalist or College Board recognition this year. Last year, the number was 150.
In all previous years, these student scholars were honored at school board meetings. But now there are just too many for that. So, for the first time last week, the 206 students representing eight Arlington ISD high schools were honored at a ceremony at the Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Center for Visual and Performing Arts and were inducted into the Arlington ISD Wall of Fame.
The students all have made incredible achievements throughout their high school careers. The 18 honorees from Arlington Collegiate High School – mostly seniors – are great examples. Most have already completed their associate’s degree – before they have even graduated from high school.
“This year’s senior class is on track to be the most accomplished at ACHS,” said ACHS principal Jeff Krieger. “We are eagerly anticipating the next few months as our seniors have been steadfast in their efforts when it comes to applying for scholarships. Given their success inside the classroom, we anticipate an exciting and bountiful spring semester.”
The number of National Merit and College Board scholars wasn’t just a record for the district. Martin High School set its own record with 81 student honorees.
“We are so proud of all of the students who were recognized at this year’s Wall of Fame ceremony,” said Matthew Franks, a Martin counselor. “With a new record of honorees, we are certain that those representing Martin High School, and AISD as a whole, will go on to do great things in their future careers.”
The National Merit Semifinalists represent less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors as the top scorers on the PSAT. They will now have the opportunity to earn a National Merit Scholarship.
The College Board honors students for high academic achievement through the following programs:
- National African American Recognition Program
- National First-Generation Recognition Program
- National Hispanic Recognition Program
- National Indigenous Recognition Program and
- National Rural and Small Town Recognition Program.
See the photos from the Wall of Fame event.