Thursday, April 30, 2015

Spearman Announces Increase in 2015 Junior Scholars

Columbia, SC – State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman congratulates over 4,000 students who are being recognized as Junior Scholars.

"This year, 4,349 Junior Scholars from across South Carolina are being recognized for their academic achievement and future potential," said Spearman. "This represents an increase of nearly 10 percent over last year. Our unique program recognizes excellence in the classroom today and how it can lead to future success for students in college and in their careers. I am proud that we are leading the way in preparing students to be 21st century graduates," concluded Spearman. To learn more about South Carolina's "Profile of the Graduate," click here. 

South Carolina's Junior Scholar program was developed in 1985 and recognizes 8th grade students annually who demonstrate exceptionally high scholastic achievement. The program provides further opportunities to facilitate their intellectual growth, broaden their individual interests, and promote their scholastic achievement.

Junior Scholars are those students who score 50 or higher on the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) in verbal, math, or writing. Students in the 7th grade are also eligible if they participate in Duke University's Talent Identification Program (TIP) and meet its eligibility requirements.

Participating South Carolina colleges and universities partner with Junior Scholars to provide them with summer learning opportunities. Students can also list their special recognition as a South Carolina Junior Scholar on their college applications.