The Valley Stream Central High School District is proud to announce that four of its students have been named finalists in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship contest. Valley Stream Central High School students Marlon Clarke Jr. and Aarish Talukdar and South High School students Andy Huang and Bahrija Radoncic have been named 2025 National Merit Finalists. This year, this prestigious recognition is being given to only around 15,000 students nationwide among 1.3 million applicants.
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation seeks to identify academically talented students throughout the United States. Factors in the selection process include students’ academic records, PSAT/NMSQT scores, an essay submission, demonstrated leadership and contributions to school and community activities, and a school official’s written recommendation.
The recognition puts Marlon, Aarish, Andy and Bahrija in the running to earn one of the 6,870 National Merit scholarships worth a total of nearly $26 million that will be offered this year.
Counselor Kathy Hardy, from left, Aarish Talukdar, Principal Candace Hugee, Marlon Clarke Jr., and counselor Samantha Cipriano.
Andy Huang, left, and Bahrija Radoncic with Principal Matthew Swinson.