Four students in the Central High School District have been recognized as a National Merit Semifinalists in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program. 

Phoebe Clancy and Lindsay Nashtatik of Kennedy High School and Asher Chang and Jeremy Dang of Mepham High School were among the 16,000 students nationwide who earned a semifinalist distinction.   

 “This is an extraordinary achievement that reflects their remarkable academic ability, perseverance, and commitment to excellence,” said Michael Harrington, the Superintendent of Schools. “Having four students earn this prestigious recognition is a great source of pride for our entire district, and we are grateful to the families, teachers, and staff whose encouragement and support helped these students reach this milestone.” 

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. High school students enter the National Merit program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test during their junior year. The semifinalists represent the highest scoring 1% of the students nationwide who took the PSAT. 

National Merit Scholarship semifinalists must submit a detailed application, including information about their academic record and participation in school and community activities. They also report any employment, honors and awards and demonstrated leadership abilities.  

Finalists will be notified in February 2027, and scholarship winners will be announced in the spring of 2027.