CCSD Recognizes 331 Superintendent's Key Scholars

From CCSD: The Cherokee County School District recognized 331 extraordinary high school juniors as Superintendent’s Key Scholars!

During the 13th Annual Superintendent’s Key Scholar Recognition Ceremony held on Tuesday, February 27, at Woodstock High School, these outstanding students were recognized for their scores achieved in October on the Grade 11 PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The program was sponsored by Cobb EMC and LGE Community Credit Union.

“Your performance ranks you in the top 10% of students in the Nation, and we all are so proud of you!” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower told the Key Scholars. “You are academic leaders, and we look forward to seeing some of you next year earn recognition as National Merit Scholars for your exemplary scores. Congratulations also to all the families here tonight, as well to the teachers, counselors, administrators and everyone who makes an impact on your education and lives.”

The Key Scholar Program is a districtwide academic recognition plan that begins in elementary school. Select fourth- and fifth-grade students qualify for the nationally recognized Duke University TIP Talent Identification Program and receive recognition at their school’s year-end awards ceremonies.

Eligible seventh-graders then have the opportunity to take the PSAT through the Duke program, getting a head start on college-entrance exam preparation that usually begins in high school. Select students perform so well they earn State recognition and invitation to a special Duke University ceremony in Atlanta.

High school freshmen scoring at the 80th percentile or above and sophomores scoring at the 85th percentile or above on the PSAT receive a Certificate of Achievement at their school’s year-end awards ceremonies.

Students recognized Tuesday as Key Scholars are juniors who rank in the top 10% of students nationwide who took the PSAT exam in October. Each student received an embroidered “Key Scholar” letter-jacket patch and will be recognized again at their school’s year-end awards ceremony.

The final step in the program is National Merit Scholars, who are selected during students’ senior year. These academically outstanding students lead their classes as they march across the graduation stage wearing a National Merit Scholar gold medallion.

Images Courtesy of CCSD