Huntington Homeschooled Teen Earns National Merit Honor

HUNTINGTON, NY — AbbeyRose Goldman, a homeschooled high school senior from Huntington, has been named a Commended Student in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Goldman, who is expected to graduate in 2027, is among approximately 34,000 students nationwide receiving the distinction for their exceptional academic promise and performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

Commended Students rank among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2027 competition by taking the qualifying exam in 2025.

Goldman has been homeschooled since fifth grade, an educational path her family chose for its flexibility and opportunities to explore subjects beyond a traditional classroom setting.

Her mother, Heather Goldman, said the family was drawn to a classical approach to education that emphasizes wisdom, virtue, logical thinking and a lifelong love of learning.

"But above all, we were inspired by the desire to connect more as a family," Heather Goldman said.

AbbeyRose's favorite subjects include philosophy, literature, criminal justice, theology and debate.

An accomplished debate competitor, she has also performed in nearly a dozen local theater productions. Although she does not plan to pursue acting professionally, her mother said both theater and debate have helped her develop confidence in public speaking.

Beyond academics, AbbeyRose sings in her church choir, participates in athletics and has competed in a Spartan race at Citi Field. She also tutors students in writing, math and Latin while working at a local deli and cafe.

Since her sophomore year, AbbeyRose has participated in dual-enrollment courses, earning 36 college credits before completing high school. She is currently considering several colleges and exploring her options for next year.

"I am honored to receive this commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Board," AbbeyRose said. "Homeschooling has instilled in me a true passion for learning, not merely to score well academically, but also to pursue knowledge for its own sake. I've been blessed with a supportive family and homeschooling community."

Her recognition comes as other Huntington students have also earned national academic honors.

Huntington High School seniors Emma Marsala and Katherine Gordon were named Commended Students in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, according to the Huntington Union Free School District.