7 Smithtown High School Students Earn National Merit Finalist Honors

Smithtown families celebrate as seven students advance to compete for scholarships

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Seven students from Smithtown High School East and West have been named National Merit Scholarship finalists, placing them among the nation's top scholars. Principals from both schools praised the students' work ethic, character, and academic rigor as they advance to compete for scholarships later this year.

Why it matters

Being named a National Merit Finalist is a prestigious academic achievement that can open doors to college scholarships and opportunities. The recognition highlights the strong educational programs and high-performing students in the Smithtown school district.

The details

The seven Smithtown High School students who were named National Merit Finalists demonstrated exceptional performance on the PSAT/NMSQT exam, which serves as the initial screening for the National Merit Scholarship Program. This honor puts them in the top 1% of high school students nationwide and qualifies them to compete for prestigious National Merit Scholarships.

  • The seven Smithtown High School students were named National Merit Finalists in 2026.

The players

Smithtown High School East

One of the two high schools in the Smithtown Central School District, located in Smithtown, New York.

Smithtown High School West

The other high school in the Smithtown Central School District, located in Smithtown, New York.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The seven National Merit Finalists from Smithtown High School will compete for National Merit Scholarships later this year.

The takeaway

The recognition of seven Smithtown High School students as National Merit Finalists highlights the academic excellence and strong educational programs in the Smithtown school district, which is preparing its students for success in higher education and beyond.