Contact Information:

Meg Matthews

Public Relations Manager

mmatthews@littlerock.gov

(501) 804-4822

                                   Media Advisory           

What: National Merit/Achievement/Hispanic Scholars Honored

When: Tuesday, December 11, 2012 – 3:15 p.m.

Where: City Hall Rotunda – 500 West Markham Street

Studying, hard work and setting academic goals have certainly paid off for many of our Little Rock scholars. Dozens of Little Rock students recently were named Semifinalists in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program, National Achievement Program and the National Hispanic Recognition Program.

Tomorrow, City leaders will recognize these students at a reception in the City Hall rotunda. Following the reception, the students will attend the Board of Director’s agenda meeting and will be recognized there as well.

The National Merit Scholarship Program, started in 1955, is a privately financed academic competition. High school students enter the program by taking the PSAT/NMSQT, a test which serves as an initial screen of the more than 1 million entrants each year – and meeting other entry and participation requirements. The National Achievement Scholars Program was kicked off in 1964 to provide recognition for outstanding African American students and the National Hispanic Recognition Program began in 1983 to recognize outstanding Hispanic American students.

Mayor Mark Stodola will be joined by other City leaders and LRSD Superintendent Morris Holmes to congratulate these amazing students.