Three members of Rocky River High School’s Class of 2014 who were recognized as Semifinalists in the prestigious National Merit Competition last fall have advanced to Finalist status. Emma McGorray, Enkhe-Tuyaa Dugarova Montgomery and William J. Spallino are now eligible for the final stage in the National Merit Competition.
The National Merit Scholarship program was established in 1955 and each year more than 8,000 of the most outstanding participants receive scholarships worth a total of $50 million for college undergraduate study. “We are extremely proud,” said Rocky River High School principal Debbie Bernard, “that year-after-year, Rocky River High School students are recognized in this rigorous academic competition.”
The winners of Merit Scholarships are chosen from the Finalist group, based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) selectors base their evaluation on the Finalist’s academic record, information about the school's curricula and grading system, two sets of test scores, school official's written recommendation, information about the student's activities and leadership, and the Finalist's own essay.