Fort Lauderdale/Boca Raton, Fla. – Oct. 5, 2023 – American Heritage Schools, a renowned institution in South Florida, is thrilled to announce that 94 seniors from the Class of 2024 have been named Semifinalists in the prestigious 69th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Among these scholars, 54 hail from the Broward Campus, while 40 are from the Palm Beach Campus.
Notably, the Broward Campus has clinched the top spot in Florida and ranks second among private schools nationwide with the highest number of National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists. Meanwhile, the Palm Beach Campus proudly stands at number two among all schools in Florida and ranks third among private schools across the United States.
This incredible achievement marks the 14th consecutive year that American Heritage Schools has led the state of Florida in producing the highest number of National Merit Semifinalists. Furthermore, for a remarkable decade, American Heritage Schools has consistently ranked as the first or second private school in the nation in terms of National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists.
Collectively, students from both campuses represent a remarkable 10 percent of all National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists within the 2,227 public and private high schools in Florida. Astonishingly, one in every six students from American Heritage Schools in the Class of 2024 has earned the title of National Merit Scholar. Additionally, an impressive 74 seniors have been recognized as National Commended Scholars.
The National Merit Scholarship Program, widely regarded as the most prestigious award a high school senior can receive, represents a national academic competition that celebrates outstanding scholastic achievements.
Dr. Douglas Laurie, the President of American Heritage Schools, expressed his immense pride, stating, “I am overflowing with pride for these exceptional students who have rightfully earned the esteemed National Merit Scholar award. In garnering this prestigious recognition, they not only stand as shining examples within the top echelon of academic achievement, encompassing the nation’s top one percent; but they also radiate excellence through their remarkable dedication and well-rounded pursuits. Their brilliance extends far beyond the classroom, showcasing a truly extraordinary commitment that inspires us all.”
Apart from the accolades, these students now have access to potentially millions of dollars in scholarships, along with newfound confidence in their future prospects. Distinguished institutions like Harvard, Stanford, the University of Chicago, and Vanderbilt have historically embraced and enrolled the greatest number of National Merit Scholars.
In a testament to their commitment to academic excellence, American Heritage Schools also reported a remarkable 93 percent pass rate on Advanced Placement (AP) exams, with scores of 3 or higher. This outstanding achievement solidifies American Heritage Schools as a premier institution for college preparation on a national scale.
Furthermore, American Heritage Schools stands as the top private school in Florida for nationally recognized scholars in math competitions, science fairs, mock trials, moot court competitions, speech and debate. The school’s illustrious alumni have gone on to become notable leaders in various fields, contributing to positive change in the world.
American Heritage Schools, an independent, non-sectarian, co-educational, college preparatory school in South Florida, serves students from Pre-K3 to 12th grade.