13 students dominate region with largest class of National Merit semifinalists
By KTBS Staff
Click here for updates on this story
SHREVEPORT, Louisiana (KTBS) — While most schools celebrate one or two semifinalists, Caddo Magnet just set the bar statewide — with 13 high-achieving seniors now in the running for millions in scholarships, the highest number across northwest Louisiana.
The recognition was announced as part of the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program, which allows academically elite seniors to compete for nearly $26 million in scholarships.
Caddo Parish School District officials emphasized the magnitude of the achievement.
“Caddo Parish once again tops the region with the largest number of National Merit Scholarship semifinalists,” the presenter said.
The students recognized include: Cruz Balderas, Bryce Chandler, Hashir Chatha, Ezekiel Forsythe, Sutton Hardy, Ivy Joseph, Jai Koticha, Elaine Lu, Nathan Tatum, Maya Trutschl, Annelise Whited, Kevin Zhao and Johnny Zheng.
All 13 currently attend Caddo Magnet High School, a campus known statewide for consistently high-performing students.
To advance to finalist status, students must submit detailed applications including academic records, leadership experiences, honors, awards, and personal essays.
Principal Amanda Dolf was also recognized for leading a campus that consistently produces more semifinalists than surrounding districts.
This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting.
Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.