N a t i o n a l M e r i t S e m i f i n a l i s t s 2 0 2 3 National Merit Semifinalists 2023

Congratulations to Commack High School’s National Merit Semi seniors were among the highest scoring students in New York State on the PSAT/NMSQT exam taken earlier this school year.

Over 16,00 Semifinalists were named in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue the competition for 7,250 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered in the spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship® award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. Finalists then have the opportunity to win a National Merit Scholarship, and earn the Merit Scholar® title.

Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 340 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.

Are You Police Smart?

Sawmill students learned about protecting themselves and their personal information while online and on social media at the Police Smart assemblies with P.O. Jesse Levy.

The fourth graders were asked to raise their hands when asked if they had a cellphone, and almost all did! Surprisingly, almost all of them were acquainted with TikTok, Snapchat and other social media platforms, although they are not yet 13 years old-the age requirement to register for those platforms.

Officer Levy related many true stories of children who shared their personal information online, and the real-life dangers of doing so. Levy also spoke about online bullying, the ramifications of bullying someone and being the subject of bullying. His best advice was to, “Talk to a trusted adult and don’t try to handle this on your own.”

Social media holds many dangers for non-savvy students. Parents, please don’t hesitate to monitor your children’s behavior and online contacts for their safety and for your peace of mind.