Carroll Middle Schooler Vying to be 'America's Favorite Student'

Isaac McFarland needs public votes to advance in national competition hosted by non-profit DTCare.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 6:45pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic school supply item such as a backpack, pencil, or notebook, repeated in a tight grid pattern in the style of Andy Warhol, conceptually representing the academic passions and community engagement of middle school students.A national competition celebrates the academic achievements of middle school students, showcasing their talents and inspiring the next generation.Pasadena Today

A 12-year-old student from Carroll, Iowa named Isaac McFarland has reached the quarterfinals of a national contest to be named 'America's Favorite Student.' The competition is hosted by the non-profit DTCare, which provides resources to areas of the world in crisis. McFarland, described as a voracious learner, is currently in sixth place, and the top 10 students will advance to the semifinals based on public voting. The winner will receive a $20,000 prize, be featured in Reader's Digest, and tour the Planetary Society and meet Bill Nye the Science Guy in Pasadena, California.

Why it matters

This contest highlights the academic achievements and community engagement of middle school students across the country, providing a national platform to showcase their talents and passions. For McFarland, success in the competition could open doors to new educational and career opportunities, inspiring other young people in his community to pursue their own dreams.

The details

Isaac McFarland, a 12-year-old student at Carroll Middle School, has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 'America's Favorite Student' contest hosted by the non-profit DTCare. McFarland is currently in sixth place out of hundreds of nominees, and the top 10 students will move on to the semifinals based on public voting. McFarland is described as a voracious learner who has participated in a range of academic competitions, from presenting at Iowa's National History Day contest to competing in middle school mock trial tournaments.

  • The quarterfinals of the 'America's Favorite Student' contest end on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
  • The top 10 students will advance to the semifinals, where another round of public voting will take place.
  • The five finalists will be announced, and the winner will be featured in Reader's Digest, travel to Pasadena, California to tour the Planetary Society and meet Bill Nye the Science Guy, and receive a $20,000 prize.

The players

Isaac McFarland

A 12-year-old student at Carroll Middle School in Iowa who has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 'America's Favorite Student' contest.

DTCare

A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides resources to areas of the world in crisis and is hosting the 'America's Favorite Student' competition.

Bill Nye

The Science Guy, who the winner of the 'America's Favorite Student' contest will have the opportunity to meet during a tour of the Planetary Society in Pasadena, California.

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What’s next

The top 10 students from the quarterfinals will advance to the semifinals, where another round of public voting will take place to determine the five finalists.

The takeaway

This national competition highlights the academic achievements and community engagement of middle school students, providing a platform to showcase their talents and inspire other young people to pursue their own educational and personal goals.