Class of 2026 Valedictorian Cooper Mears was awarded finalist for the National Merit Scholarship in early February of 2026. The National Merit Scholarship is an annual scholarship awarded based on outstanding PSAT scores, academic achievements, and involvement within the community. Every year, about 15,000 students become finalists for the scholarship, and approximately half of them achieve the National Merit Scholarship. Those who achieve high scores on the PSAT/NMSQT are awarded Semi-Finalists and can later apply to become Finalists.
The process began in Cooper’s junior year following his completion of the PSAT. Cooper was awarded Semi-Finalist recognition when he began the application process in September, with it ending in early October of his senior year. He included both his academic achievements and passionate involvement within the Belleville community in his application. Additionally, the process required both an essay and a principal recommendation.
Cooper aspires to use the $2,500 to assist with books and housing expenses in university. The award itself expands beyond its financial value: “The Finalist standing is great resume fodder that many will look at highly, aiding me in entering higher fields of study.” Says Cooper.
With acute academic achievement, Cooper claimed that his initial preparation for the National Merit Scholarship was studying for the PSAT through Khan Academy. “However, my most impactful preparation was my academic dedication in my 9 AP classes and volunteer experience as part of Band and NHS that enabled me to achieve this finalist standing.” States Cooper.
Cooper currently awaits his scholarship offers, which he will receive in the spring. He is set to attend the University of Michigan in the fall of 2026 with a major in Mathematics and continues to achieve outstanding grades and collaboration within the community.
