Midland ISD celebrates seven National Merit ‘Commended Students’

Midland ISD announced seven students were recognized as “Commended Students” by the National Merit Scholarship Program, which means they scored among the top 3 percent of all participants nationwide on the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

They include Eliana Aguila and Aidan Sanchez of Midland High; Ryan Rounds of Legacy High; Paula Padron and Hannah Russum of Young Women’s Leadership Academy; and Sumi Schwarz and McKensey Dunaway of Early College High.

This brings the total number of MISD students recognized by National Merit to 10, up from four in 2023 and two in 2022. Three National Merit semi-finalists were announced last month.

“These recognitions come in addition to 64 MISD students who recently earned the College Board’s National Recognition Award, adding to the list of MISD recent academic achievements and honors,” Midland ISD states.

“The achievements of these students are a testament to their hard work and dedication,” said Dr. Amanda Melchor, MISD’s executive director of Secondary Teaching and Learning. “Being named a Commended Student is an incredible accomplishment that will enhance college and career prospects and raise the profile of MISD academics as a whole.”

Commended Scholars and National Merit Semi-finalists will be recognized at the Oct. 15 school board meeting.