Pinecrest Academy is proud to announce that three senior boys have received recognition as Finalists in the National Merit Scholarship program and one senior girl was recognized as a Commended Scholar. Of the 1.5 million entrants, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT/NMSQT® Scholarship Program. Slightly more than only one percent of the total students who take this exam receive recognition at the Semifinalist level. Selection Index scores (critical reading + mathematics + writing skills scores) qualify for recognition in the National Merit. In addition, in all of Forsyth County, there are 8 students who made the list of National Merit Scholar Semifinalists - 4 from South Forsyth, 1 from North Forsyth, and 3 from Pinecrest. This is a tremendous accomplishment considering the three from Pinecrest come from a senior class of 33!

The National Merit® Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. In early September, about 16,000 students, or approximately one-third of the 50,000 high scorers, are notified that they have qualified as Semifinalists. To ensure that academically able young people from all parts of the United States are included in this talent pool, Semifinalists are designated on a state representational basis. They are the highest scoring entrants in each state.

Roberto Ocon has been recognized as a National Hispanic Scholar and an AP Scholar with Distinction. He was a participant in the Governors Honors program in math in 2008, was a member of the state champion academic quiz bowl team, and is president of the National Honor Society. He is also the recipient of the Robert W. Woodruff Scholar award.  Roberto plays varsity soccer for the Paladins.

Robert Herd is an accomplished pianist, a member of the National Honor Society, and the state champion academic quiz bowl team. Rob plays varsity tennis and is a member of the varsity cross country team. He received the Scholar Athlete award. Rob earned a gold medal on the national Latin exam.

Michael Williams was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction and was a member of the state champion academic quiz bowl team. He serves as treasurer of the National Honor Society and plays varsity soccer.

Margot Howard is a four year letter winner and team captain of the varsity cheerleading squad and a scholar athlete. She is a Supermodel for Pure Fashion, a member of the State Champion Quiz Bowl team, and a member of the National Honor Society. Margot received a Gold Medal in the Latin Exam and has appeared in five drama productions over the past three years.

Please direct any questions to Mr. Jay Lynch at 770.888.4477 ext. 306