2024 Presidential Scholars Candidates

We proudly announce that 15 students from the Class of 2024 (Broward Campus, 8 and Palm Beach Campus, 7) have been nominated for the Presidential Scholars award, making American Heritage Schools the No. 1 school in Florida for the highest number of Presidential Scholar candidates. Being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar is one of the nation’s most prestigious academic awards for high school graduates. View the full list of this year's class here.

The candidates were selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate from United States high schools in 2024. Scholars are selected based on superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character, and involvement in community and school activities.

“Being a presidential scholar is an extraordinary academic achievement, and we are immensely proud of our students who have earned this prestigious honor”, said Dr. Doug Laurie, president of American Heritage Schools. “It reflects their dedication, intellect, and commitment to excellence, and serves as a testament to their hard work and determination.”

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by executive order of the President to recognize some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, 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 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth.

A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select approximately 600 semifinalists in early April. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

U.S. Presidential Scholars are honored for their accomplishments during the National Recognition Program in Washington D.C. each June. To commemorate their achievement, the Scholars are awarded the Presidential Scholars Medallion during a White House sponsored ceremony.