Cherokee Schools Recognizes 318 Superintendent's Key Scholars

CHEROKEE COUNTY, GA — The Cherokee County School District recognized 318 extraordinary high school juniors as Superintendent’s key scholars.

During the 15th Annual Superintendent’s Key Scholar Recognition Ceremony held on Wednesday at Cherokee High School, these outstanding students were recognized for their scores achieved on the Practice SAT (PSAT). The program was sponsored by Cobb EMC and LGE Community Credit Union.

“You are here this evening because you rank in the top 10 percent of students in the nation,” Superintendent Brian Hightower told the key scholars. “That is a major accomplishment, one for which you, your families and your teachers should be very proud. As academic leaders, you have the potential to continue distinguishing yourselves as high school seniors, in your college pursuits and, eventually, in your chosen careers.”

The key scholar program is a district-wide academic recognition plan that begins in elementary school. Select students qualify for the nationally recognized Duke University TIP Talent Identification Program and receive recognition at their school’s year-end awards ceremonies.

Eligible middle school students 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 Wednesday as Key Scholars are juniors whose PSAT scores from their sophomore or junior year rank in the top 10 percent nationwide. Each student was congratulated at the ceremony by Hightower and school board members, received an embroidered “key scholar” letter-jacket patch, and enjoyed a reception with their families and principal. They 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 students will lead their classes as they march across the graduation stage wearing a National Merit Scholar gold medallion.