Matthew Petrides A National Merit Semifinalist

Palm Beach Central High School recently announced that student Matthew Petrides has been named a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist.

The School District of Palm Beach County has 47 semifinalists for the 2017 National Merit Scholarship program, allowing them to continue in the competition for approximately 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth about $33 million.

About 1.6 million high school juniors entered the 2017 program by taking the 2015 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which serves as the initial screen for program entrants. Semifinalists for the program include the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

To become a finalist for a National Merit Scholarship, semifinalists must submit a detailed application, including their academic record, participation in school and community activities, employment and awards, and honors received. They also must write an essay and submit a recommendation by a high school official. Winners of the 2017 National Merit Scholarships will be announced next year.

ABOVE: Palm Beach Central High School Principal Darren Edgecomb with National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist Matthew Petrides.