TA News

Thetford Academy seniors Daniel Mann and Elijah Renner have been named semifinalists in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s most selective honors for high school students. From more than 6,500 of the nation’s highest-achieving students invited into the selection process, just 627 advanced to the semifinalist stage. Only seven students statewide made the Vermont list, with Thetford Academy accounting for two.

Scholars are selected on the basis of their accomplishments in many areas–academic and artistic success, accomplishment in career and technical fields, leadership, strong character, and involvement in school and the community. The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in academics, leadership, and service to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields.

Annually, up to 161 students are ultimately selected as U.S. Presidential Scholars by the presidentially appointed White House Commission and honored in Washington, D.C. at a White House ceremony attended by the President of the United States. Final selections will be announced this summer as the process continues. 

To see a full list of candidates and semifinalists is available on the Program’s web page http://www.ed.gov/psp.