Student named National Merit Semifinalist

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has named Midlothian High School senior Jacob Peery as a semifinalist in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. The College Board annually recognizes the top scorers on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test that students take during their sophomore year in high school. According to the College Board, more than 1.3 million students take the exam, thereby entering the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Program. 

Only about 16,000 students were named a 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents the top one percent of U.S. high school seniors. As a semifinalist, Jacob will continue in the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s competition for 7,140 scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered in the spring. 

“We celebrate Jacob and his academic achievement of being named a National Merit Semifinalist,” said MHS Principal Amanda Rodgers. “It is an extraordinary accomplishment that only happens through hard work, dedication and a commitment to academic pursuits. We are proud of his efforts.” 

Jacob plans to pursue a career in game development and design at the post-secondary level. He is still considering university options. The MISD Board of Trustees recognized Jacob at its September meeting. His father Dean, mother Amanda, and younger sister Gabby were in attendance. 

MISD congratulates Jacob Peery for inspiring excellence today to change the world tomorrow. Learn more about the National Merit Scholarship Program here.