Students from Manatee County's traditional public high schools are advancing in the National Merit Scholarship program.
So far, ALL seven high school seniors received word they're Finalists, including Liam Wilford (Braden River High), Sam Leavy (Lakewood Ranch High), Jonathan Xavioer, Samuel Maurer, Madison Barendse and Alexander Aldama-Apodaca (Southeast High) and Coral Bell (Palmetto High).
The students were recognized during a School Board Meeting as representing less than one-percent of U.S. high school seniors.
To be considered for this honor, students fulfill several requirements. Merit scholar designees are selected based on their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies.
This Spring, approximately 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million will be offered to scholars. Winners will be announced beginning in April