By Randee Schmitt

Eight outstanding Mavs earned National Merit honors through their performance on the PSAT exam taken their junior year. Among these students are Cory Johnson, National Merit Semifinalist and National Achievement Semifinalist; Aaron Burroughs, National Merit Commended Scholar; Nestor Fanco, David Castro Acosta, Leyla Mirisoleiman, and Taylor Moralez, National Hispanic Scholars; Christopher Mire, National Hispanic Honorable Mention; and Kathleen Royster, National Achievement Outstanding Participant.

These students took more rigorous courses consistently throughout high school, including Pre-AP and AP classes. Choosing courses like the ones mentioned ultimately helped prepare them and were a factor in their success on the PSAT. This national recognition opens many doors for colleges and universities to offer them scholarships.

Monday morning the recipients enjoyed a breakfast to kick off National Merit Recognition Week. This is a national honor, and these students competed against thousands of students throughout the country to earn this special recognition.

Friday during the pep rally, the honorees will participate in games and activities to get the school spirit flowing in preparation for the game Saturday. Finally, during the annual M&M Bowl halftime show, the eight students will walk through a military saber line with their parents on the field. NEISD Superintendent, Dr. Brian G. Gottardy, as well as Principal Debra Aceves-Torres, will recognize these students with a medal to commemorate their outstanding performance.

Congratulations to these eight outstanding students, the Maverick community is very proud.