October 2023

Upholding Shakopee High School’s continued recognition in the National Merit Program, three students have joined an elite group around the nation designated in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Shakopee Seniors Andrew Klemm and Kush Purani have been named 2024 National Merit Semifinalists. Erika Schroder has been named a 2024 National Merit Commended Student.

16,000 Semifinalists were selected for the 69th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These students have an opportunity to compete for roughly 7,140 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship® award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. 

Shakopee High School’s Commended Student can become a candidate for special scholarships sponsored by corporations and businesses.

The students will be honored during a November 6th School Board Work Session in the District Office Board Room (6pm) where they will have an opportunity to share details about their passions, inspiration and time in Shakopee.

“‘I am so thrilled for our students this year to continue the awesome tradition of having National Merit Semi-Finalists," shared Erin Heilman, Shakopee High Potential and Innovative Programs Coordinator. "It’s such a wonderful reflection on the culmination of all of their experiences here in Shakopee. We have fabulous students and it’s a wonderful time to recognize them, their teachers and all of the hard work that has led them to this point.’” 

According to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, about 95 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and approximately half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar® title.