PCHS Bulletin - Jayden Martinez
Published Date – October 21, 2025
Foster Smith (Sr.) has been named a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program, marking the arrival of academic distinction at Parrish Community High School (PCHS).
Smith's outstanding performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) has earned him this honor, placing him among the top students in the country. Out of the more than 1.5 million students who took the test nationwide, he was among the top 50,000 high scorers, placing him in the upper echelon. The honor is a strong testament to Smith's skills.
This status, which is recognized by colleges and universities, improves a student's overall application and could lead to scholarships from businesses other than the NMSC.
Smith views this honor as a source of pride for PCHS and a testament to his diligence and dedication to his studies.
Smith's accomplishment demonstrates how important the PSAT/NMSQT is to a high school student's academic career. The PSAT is the official qualifying exam for admission to the National Merit Scholarship Program, so it is more than just a practice test. By giving detailed feedback on academic strengths and weaknesses, the test helps students assess their readiness for college and can help them prepare for the more difficult SAT or ACT. Additionally, the PSAT serves as a gateway to the College Board's National Recognition Program and more than $300 million in scholarship opportunities.
By getting ready for the upcoming exam administration, PCHS is keeping its emphasis on academic excellence. The date of the next PSAT is October 22. All 10th graders, as well as any 11th and 12th graders who need a graduation concordant score, are automatically enrolled in the test. To obtain early practice and be eligible for future academic honors like Smith's, interested 9th and 11th graders are also urged to register and pay to take the exam.
Smith's outstanding achievement is commended by the school, which hopes that more students will achieve comparable success.