Three West Des Moines Valley Students Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

A news release from West Des Moines Community Schools:

Valley High School seniors Eric Chen, Caroline Erickson and Tricia Shi have been selected as a candidate for the United States Presidential Scholars Program, which recognizes the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors.

Scholars are chosen on the basis of their accomplishments in many areas, including academics, arts, leadership and involvement in school and the community. Candidates from around the country will apply in hopes of being selected as one of 500 finalists, from which up to 141 Scholars will be chosen.

If selected, the students will be invited to Washington, D.C., in June to participate in National Recognition Weekend, where they will participate in a ceremony sponsored by the White House.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts.

Each year, up to 141 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students. The Scholars represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in young people.