The College Board’s National Recognition Program has recognized 28 Hector J. Garcia Early College High School students. The students were given the prestigious honor as National Recognition Scholars for their college entrance exam scores.
To be eligible, the student must achieve a minimum PSAT/NMSQT score for their region, have a cumulative junior grade point average of 3.5 or higher, and meet their state’s cutoff scores on their critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills on the PSAT to be designated as Scholars. The NHRP honors these outstanding students and makes their information available to subscribing college and universities.
GECHS students selected for the National Hispanic Recognition Award include Alejandro Ordonez, Andrea Lopez, Andres Ambrosio Licona, Angel Godines, Ashley Gonzalez, Brandon Vasquez, Brayan Rodriguez, Cynthia Moreno, Eric Morales, Gerardo Martinez Guzman, Hermes Luna, Jocelyn Villarreal, Jorge Diaz, Juan Carreon, Karla Madrigal, Kate Delao, Kelsey Castro, Kyle Hamlin, Luis Arriaga, Mariann Cabrera, Mario Alvarado, Melissa Castanon, Raphael Navarro, Ricardo Valdez, Roy Ibarra, Salma Medina, and Victoria Garcia.
GECHS student Kwazar Coulibaly Akikuni was selected for the National African American Recognition Award.
“We are thrilled that our students have earned this recognition. We are very proud of them for their achievements in their classroom and on the College Board assessments,” said Margarita Taboada, Garcia Early College High School Principal. “These programs help students from underrepresented backgrounds stand out to colleges during admission.”
Taking the PSAT/NMSQT Test as juniors allows students to see for themselves where they rate academically in comparison to other juniors all over this state and country. For some, who achieve national standing, it is the time to make final selections of colleges or universities as being a National Recognition Scholar opens the door to many opportunities. Taking a test such as the PSAT is the first important step in planning for the future. “We want to honor the hard work of these students through the College Board National Recognition Program. This program creates a way for colleges and scholarship programs to connect directly with underrepresented students who they are hoping to reach,” said Tarlin Ray, College Board Senior Vice President of BigFuture. “We hope the award winners and their families celebrate this prestigious honor and it helps them plan for their big future