Carroll ISD Celebrates 32 National Merit Finalists – Highest Per Capita in Texas

Carroll ISD is proud to announce that 32 students have earned recognition as National Merit Finalists this year, giving the district the highest per capita ratio of any public school district in Texas.

“This kind of achievement reflects years of intentional instruction, support, and high expectations across every Carroll ISD campus,” said Jeremy Glenn, Superintendent of Schools. “It's the result of outstanding teaching, strong partnerships with families, and a districtwide commitment to inspiring excellence in every student.”

The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes academically exceptional U.S. high school seniors based on their performance on the PSAT. From approximately 1.3 million student entrants nationwide, about 16,000 are named Semifinalists, with roughly 15,000 advancing to Finalist status. Each year, approximately 7,500 students are selected to receive National Merit Scholarships totaling nearly $30 million, based on their academic skills, accomplishments, leadership, and potential for future success.

"We are incredibly proud of these students and grateful for the educators and families who help make this level of achievement possible," said School Board President Cam Bryan. “This recognition speaks to the strength of our entire system, from our earliest classrooms to our advanced academic programs. Dragons are scholars."

While National Merit recognition is a high school achievement, it typically reflects a long-term focus on academic rigor. Literacy, numeracy, curiosity, and confidence are built at the elementary school level. In intermediate and middle schools, critical thinking and academic habits take shape. These skills and further refined in high school, where students rise to extraordinary levels of performance. Every educator, at every grade level, plays a meaningful role in this success.

These 32 Carroll scholars represent dedication, collaboration, and an enduring belief in student potential. Carroll ISD congratulates our National Merit Scholars and celebrates the collective effort of the Dragon community that helped them soar. Go Dragons!