We are thrilled to announce that one of our exceptional seniors, Sebastian Bethel, has been chosen as a Semifinalist in the prestigious 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. This remarkable achievement places Sebastian among an elite group of 16,000 Semifinalists from across the nation based on his exceptional performance.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a highly competitive academic competition that recognizes and rewards the brightest minds in our country. These talented high school seniors, like Sebastian, have the opportunity to compete for National Merit Scholarships. These scholarships will be awarded in the spring, providing an invaluable opportunity for these outstanding students to further their education. 

Being selected as a Semifinalist is an extraordinary accomplishment, as it represents less than one percent of all high school seniors in the United States. Sebastian's exceptional academic performance on the 2024 PSAT and dedication to his studies have set him apart as one of the highest-scoring entrants in the state. 

On behalf of Kings Park High School, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sebastian and his family for this outstanding achievement. We are immensely proud of his hard work and commitment to excellence. As Sebastian continues his academic journey, we will be there to support him every step of the way, cheering him on as he strives to become a finalist for the National Merit Scholarship. 

Sebastian's success serves as an inspiration to all of our students, reminding them of the incredible possibilities that await them when they embrace their potential and pursue their dreams. We are confident that Sebastian's bright future will continue to shine, and we eagerly await the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for him. 

Once again, congratulations to Sebastian Bethel on this well-deserved recognition. We wish him the best of luck as he continues to excel in his academic pursuits and aspires to become a finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program.