GHS senior Colin Speaker has been announced as a 2021 US Presidential scholar.
On Thursday Governor Ned Lamont and CT Acting Commissioner of Education Charlene Russell-Tucker congratulated Colin, along with Rachel Brooks from Christian Heritage School in Trumbull.
Governor Lamont said US Presidential Scholars are selected based on their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. The recognition is one of the nation’s highest honors for graduating high school seniors.
The US Dept of Education selected the program’s 57th class of 161 high school seniors from a national pool of student semifinalists, who were nominated for their high academic performance and distinguishing themselves by overcoming hardships, achieving a unique accomplishment, or demonstrating outstanding leadership.
“Because of the success of the incredible pool of teachers and faculty in our state, Connecticut is proud to be home to among the best performing schools in the nation, and we couldn’t be more proud of the success our students are achieving,” Governor Lamont said. “I offer my congratulations to Rachel and Colin on this extraordinary national recognition. They represent some of the very best of our state, and I look forward to witnessing their future career accomplishments and academic achievements.”
Each year, the US Dept of Education invites states to nominate students for the US Presidential Scholars Program. The Connecticut State Department of Education invites school districts to recommend students for the program.
The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
The Presidential Scholars Class of 2021 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer.
A complete list of 2021 US Presidential Scholars is available at www.ed.gov/psp.