Newtown High School senior Allen Xue learned on September 13 that he has been named a semifinalist in the 63rd Annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Interim Superintendent of Schools Lorrie Rodrigue and Newtown High School Interim Principal David Roach shared the news with Allen as a small group gathered in the school's Guidance Department.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation is a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance. It was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program, according to the corporation.

Scholarships are underwritten by the corporation with its own funds and by approximately 420 business organizations and higher education institutions that share the corporation's goals of honoring the nation's scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.

Approximately 16,000 semifinalists were named and those selected will continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, with more than $32 million in scholarships expected to be offered in the spring, according to the corporation.

To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. Finalists will be named in February. Scholarship winners will be announced between April and July.

"We are so proud of you, and I know all of the staff is," said Dr Rodrigue.

As the group congratulating Allen grew, Mr Roach said, "On behalf of everyone in the room here, congratulations."