3 Malibu High Students Recognized By National Merit

MALIBU, CA — Three Malibu High School students were recognized by the National Merit Scholarship program, meaning they received high scores on the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT).

One Malibu student, Dylan Rem, was recognized as a Semifinalists. Three others were named Commended students, meaning they tested just below the level of Semifinalists. The commended Malibu High students were Garrett Button and Cooper Norby.

Around 16,000 students nationwide were named semifinalists in early September. These students represent the highest PSAT scores in their respective states, and the Semifinalist status qualifies students for a chance at a number of scholarships. Some 15,000 semifinalists will be named Finalists to compete for 7,250 scholarships worth nearly $28 million.

Four Santa Monica High School student were also named National Merit Semifinalists.

“I feel proud to be selected as a National Merit Semifinalist,” said Santa Monica High School student and Semifinalist Danny Chmaytelli. “I studied beforehand by taking the practice test the day before the PSAT and I was also lucky because I had taken my SAT a month before.”

The next step for the semifinalists and their schools is to submit a detailed scholarship application with academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. The student must also earn SAT or ACT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

The scholarships are underwritten by National Merit's own funds and by approximately 340 business organizations, colleges and universities.

Finalists will be notified in February.