Three high school seniors selected for recognition as 2010 Presidential Scholars

WASHINGTON, DC & GREENVILLE & AIKEN, SC- May 5, 2010 -Three seniors in South Carolina public schools are among the 141outstanding students nationwide recognized as 2010 PresidentialScholars, according to federal Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.  

The program was established in 1964 to honor youth who have demonstratedexceptional academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership,citizenship and service at school and in their community. 

The Palmetto State’s winners include two students at the Governor’sSchool for the Arts and Humanities in Greenville – Jake Ross andUchechiKalu – and AikenHigh School senior Aric Berning.  They were chosenfrom a pool of 11 semifinalists statewide.  Sixty-eight seniors frompublic and private schools were identified as awardcandidates inFebruary.       

These student leaders and scholars show that setting high expectationsand striving for excellence pays off, Secretary Duncan said.  Theiracademic and artistic achievements reflect a sense of purpose that weshould seek to instill in all students to prepare them for college,careers, civic responsibilities, and the challenges of today’s jobmarket.

Presidential Scholars will go to Washington, DC, for recognitionceremonies from June 19-22.  During that time they will meet withgovernment officials, educators, authors, musicians, scientists andothers.  They’ll also have the opportunity to visit museums andmonuments, and to attend recitals, receptions and ceremonies.

Since 1983, each Presidential Scholar has been encouraged to invite hisor her most inspiring and challenging teacher to also travel toWashington to receive a Teacher Recognition Award from theU.S.Department of Education.  Teachers invited this year include ScottGould, creative non-fiction instructor at the Governor’s School for theArts and Humanities, and David Salter, biology teacher at Williston-ElkoHighSchool in Williston School District, Barnwell County 29 .