Three public school students from North Carolina where announced as 2019 Presidential Scholars by the U.S. Department of Education. The agency recognized 161 high school seniors from across the country for their accomplishments in academics.
The three North Carolina students are:
- Isaac Eli Diaz of Asheboro and a senior at Asheboro High School in Asheboro.
- Yijian Huang of Chapel Hill and a senior at the North Carolina School of Science and Math in Durham.
- Navami Jain of Charlotte and a senior at the North Carolina School of Science and Math in Durham.
"The hard work and dedication of Isaac, Yijan, and Navami is an inspiration to all of North Carolina," said State Superintendent Mark Johnson. "I congratulate them for their accomplishments. They are extraordinary examples of the many great students we have across our state."
There are an approximate 3.6 million students across the country who are expected to graduate from high school this year. Of that 3.6 million, only 5,200 qualified for the 2019 Presidential award, and just 161 were awarded.
The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
The 161 chosen high school seniors will be recognized on June 23. This ceremony will be held in Washington D.C. where the selected students will be awarded a Presidential Scholar Medallion.
About the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction:
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction provides leadership to 115 local public school districts and 160 charter schools serving over 1.5 million students in kindergarten through high school graduation. The agency is responsible for all aspects of the state's public school system and works under the direction of the North Carolina State Board of Education.