Shreveport, September 18, 2025
News Summary
An elite group of high school seniors from Shreveport has been recognized as National Merit Semifinalists, competing for over $26 million in scholarships. These academically exceptional students were selected based on their impressive PSAT scores and represent less than 1% of high school seniors nationwide. The recognition highlights both their individual achievements and the support from educators in the community.
Shreveport – An elite group of high school seniors from the Shreveport area has been recognized as National Merit Semifinalists, marking a significant academic achievement. Among the approximately 16,000 students nationwide who earned this designation, these students are now in contention for over 6,900 scholarships totaling approximately $26 million.
These semifinalists were selected based on their high scores from the PSAT, which is typically taken during their junior year. Notably, this group represents less than 1% of all high school seniors in the United States, reflecting their outstanding academic performance. To advance to the finalist stage, students must submit an application that outlines their academic achievements, leadership experiences, and participation in extracurricular activities. Finalists are also required to write an essay and achieve SAT or ACT scores that align with their PSAT results.
Approximately 50% of the finalists will eventually receive scholarships, earning the title of National Merit Scholar. In total, 15 students from Caddo Parish and three from Bossier Parish have been named National Merit Semifinalists. Among the semifinalists from Caddo Parish, twelve are from Caddo Parish Magnet High School, two are from Captain Shreve High School, and one is from C.E. Byrd High School. The three semifinalists from Bossier Parish are Richard “Gabe” Falting from Parkway High, Kaylee Musgrove from Benton High, and Joshua Robinson from Airline High.
Bossier Schools Superintendent Mitch Downey expressed pride in the accomplishments of the Bossier Parish semifinalists, emphasizing their dedication to learning and character as key factors in their achievements. Similarly, about 95% of the semifinalists are expected to advance to the finalist stage, as indicated by Caddo Parish school officials.
To qualify as finalists, the semifinalists must provide detailed applications. This includes their academic record, school and community involvement, leadership capabilities, an essay, and a recommendation from a school official. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation anticipates that approximately half of the finalists will receive a National Merit Scholarship and earn the prestigious title of National Merit Scholar.
This achievement not only highlights the academic excellence of these students but also reflects the dedication of the educators and communities that support them. With applications now underway, the students’ future prospects are bright, as they strive for scholarships that could greatly benefit their college education.
Details on Semifinalists
Caddo Parish Semifinalists:
- 12 from Caddo Parish Magnet High School
- 2 from Captain Shreve High School
- 1 from C.E. Byrd High School
Bossier Parish Semifinalists:
- Richard “Gabe” Falting (Parkway High)
- Kaylee Musgrove (Benton High)
- Joshua Robinson (Airline High)
Background Context
The National Merit Scholarship Program, initiated in 1955, was designed to identify and honor academically talented high school students while encouraging them to pursue academic excellence. Each year, high school juniors from across the nation take the PSAT, and the highest scorers become semifinalists. The program’s aim is to provide scholarship opportunities to students who aspire to continue their education at the collegiate level, thus making a significant impact on their future career paths.
FAQ Section
What is the National Merit Scholarship Program?
The National Merit Scholarship Program is designed to identify and honor academically talented high school students while providing scholarship opportunities for those who excel.
How are National Merit Semifinalists selected?
National Merit Semifinalists are selected based on their high scores from the PSAT, typically taken during their junior year, representing less than 1% of all high school seniors in the United States.
What percentage of semifinalists become finalists?
Approximately 95% of semifinalists are expected to become finalists.
How many scholarships are available through the National Merit Scholarship Program?
The semifinalists are competing for over 6,900 scholarships amounting to about $26 million.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Semifinalists Nationwide | Approximately 16,000 |
| Percentage of High School Seniors | Less than 1% |
| Number of Scholarships Available | Over 6,900 |
| Total Amount of Scholarships | About $26 million |
| Expected Finalists | Approximately 95% |
| Expected Scholarship Recipients | Approximately 50% of finalists |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Loyola College Prep Welcomes New Principal
Shreveport High School Seniors Achieve National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist Status
Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- Wikipedia: National Merit Scholarship Program
- KSLA News
- Google Search: National Merit Scholarships
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Merit Scholarship Program
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
