Clear Creek High School Student Named Candidate in U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

Ryan Reddy, a graduating senior at Clear Creek High School, has been named as a candidate in the 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, according to an announcement from the U.S. Department of Education. 

This year, 4,000 students from across the country made the list of candidates invited to apply for this prestigious program. Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community, according to the release. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields. Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth.

A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select approximately 650 semifinalists in April. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select up to 161 finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

U.S. Presidential Scholars are honored for their accomplishments during the National Recognition Program each June. To commemorate their achievement, the Scholars are awarded the Presidential Scholars Medallion.