Gulfport High School is proud to announce that two of its exceptional students, Andrew Juraszek and Jonathan Palma Palacios, have qualified as Semifinalists in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program.
These talented Admirals are part of a select group of more than 16,000 high school seniors nationwide who have earned this prestigious distinction. Their outstanding academic performance places them in the top percentage of U.S. high school seniors who took the 2025 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as the initial screening for program entrants.
"We are extraordinarily proud of Andrew and Jonathan for achieving this monumental milestone," said Dr. Rachel Gibson, Principal. "Their dedication to academic excellence embodies the true spirit of an Admiral. Reaching this level of national recognition reflects not only their hard work and personal drive but also the steadfast support of their families, teachers, and school community."
As Semifinalists, Andrew and Jonathan now have the opportunity to advance to Finalist status and compete for approximately 6,800 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million, which will be awarded in spring 2027. To become Finalists, Semifinalists must maintain an outstanding academic record throughout high school, receive a strong endorsement from their school principal, submit a detailed scholarship application, and achieve SAT® or ACT® scores that confirm their performance on the qualifying test.
The Gulfport School District invites the entire coastal community to join in celebrating these outstanding scholars as they represent the Admirals on the national stage.
Media Contact:
Beth Wilson
GSD Public Relations
beth.wilson@gulfportschools.org
(228)897-6031