Eight Providence Students Nominated For U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

GoLocalProv News Team

Eight Providence Students Nominated For U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

The Providence Public School Department announced this week that eight high school seniors have been named candidates to become United States Presidential Scholars based on their academic or artistic achievements. 

The United States Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964  to recognize and honor the country’s most distinguished high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts.

Application for the Presidential Scholars Program is by invitation only. Students must be U.S. citizens or Legal Permanent U.S. Residents by the application deadline, enrolled in their senior year of high school and score exceptionally well on either the SAT or the ACT standardized test. Candidates for the arts component must meet the same criteria and participate in the National Young/Arts Program.

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The candidates are evaluated on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership and service activities and an analysis of an essay.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars candidates from the Providence Public School Department are:

Devon Callanan, Classical High School

Isabel Espinal, Dr. Jorge Alvarez High School

Frank Jajo, Central High School

Makara Keo, Dr. Jorge Alvarez High School

Kevin Leon, Mount Pleasant High School 

Henry J. Mayer, Classical High School 

Argela Perez, Central High School 

Joseph A. Zurier, Classical High School

In April, the Commission on Presidential Scholars makes the final selection of one young man and young woman from each state, Washington, DC, Puerto Rico and from families of U.S. citizens living abroad. In addition, up to 15 students are chosen at large. It is recognized as one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

Students chosen as U.S. Presidential Scholars are recognized with an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. in June. They will receive their medallion at a White House ceremony and will have the opportunity to meet and speak with accomplished national leaders. They will also tour the nation’s capital and other significant museums and monuments.


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