Hellertown, PA -- Saucon Valley High School is proud to recognize five members of the Class of 2027 for outstanding academic achievement through the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Ryan Pakzad has been named a Semifinalist in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, earning a place among more than 16,000 academically talented high school seniors nationwide.

The National Merit Scholarship Program began with more than 1.2 million juniors representing approximately 20,000 high schools. Semifinalists were selected based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT during their junior year and now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for approximately 6,700 National Merit Scholarships, worth nearly $24 million.

To compete for a National Merit Scholarship, Semifinalists must meet additional requirements to advance to Finalist standing. About 95% of Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing. Finalists will be announced in February, and approximately half of the Finalists are expected to earn National Merit Scholarships and receive the title of Merit Scholar.

Four additional Saucon Valley seniors have been named 2027 National Merit Commended Students: Sara Bocchini, Vaughn Kaye, Lila Parsons and James Twardzik.

Approximately 34,000 students nationwide have earned the distinction of Commended Student for the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program. These students are recognized for their exceptional academic promise based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT.

While Commended Students do not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, their recognition reflects a high level of academic achievement and places them among a distinguished group of students recognized through the national program.

Congratulations to Ryan, Sara, Vaughn, Lila and James on these well-deserved recognitions.

We are proud to celebrate your hard work, academic achievement and accomplishments in your final year at Saucon!