OHS Senior Nominated to U.S. Presidential Scholars Program

Ozark High School senior Nathanael Martin recently made history by becoming one of the first students in Ozark history to be nominated for the prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. 

“We are incredibly proud of the hard work, effort, and dedication that has led to this honor,” OHS Principal Dr. Phillip Witt said. “Being nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is a remarkable achievement that reflects not only academic excellence but also a commitment to continuous learning and growth.” 

Each year, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes up to 161 exceptional high school seniors across the nation for their achievements in academics, the arts, or career and technical education. Martin has been honored for his outstanding academic achievements.

Students nominated for academic excellence are selected for the most part based on their ACT or SAT scores and must rank among the top scorers in their state. Only about 4,000 seniors nationwide receive nominations each year, granting them the opportunity to apply for one of the final 161 Presidential Scholar positions. Notably, students cannot apply individually, nor can their schools nominate them. 

“The Scholars represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in young people,” the U.S. Department of Education says on its website about the program. “In honoring the U.S. Presidential Scholars, the President of the United States symbolically honors all graduating high school seniors of high potential.” 

In addition to his academic achievements, Martin is one of the drum majors for the Pride of the Ozarks Marching Band, is captain of robotics team, math team and academic team, is a part of Science Olympiad and is currently completing a capstone project where he is working to build and program a delivery robot to be used by the school’s coffee shop and students. 

This year, Martin is one of only four nominees from southwest Missouri, with the other three residing in the Springfield area. His nomination is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and academic excellence. Congratulations, Nathanael!