ICSD Students Achieve Notable PSAT Scores

February 3, 2016 (Independence, IA) – Recently, a group of 23 Independence Community School District (ICSD) sophomore and junior students opted to take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test administered by the College Board that measures knowledge and skills in reading, writing and language, and math; thus preparing students for the SAT test.

The PSAT/NMSQT is much more than a practice test; the scores from the PSAT/NMSQT are also used to determine eligibility and qualification for the National Merit Scholarship Program. An outstanding score on the PSAT/NMSQT can open the door to National Merit Scholarships and other awards. The National Merit website states, “Since its founding, NMSC has recognized over 3 million students and provided more than 396,000 scholarships worth over $1.5 billion. The honors awarded to exceptionally able students are viewed as definitive marks of excellence. Recipients of Merit Scholarship awards, Achievement Scholarship awards, and corporate-sponsored Special Scholarships have increased the nation’s respect for intellectual accomplishments and have contributed significantly to its talent pool of future leaders.”

Overall, 23 ICSD students took the PSAT test; all students met or exceeded the English, Reading and Writing (ERW) state benchmark; 21 of the students met or exceeded the Math state benchmark; and as a whole on the test, the students earned 67 points over the state average.

Special congratulations go out to Juniors Grace Bertelli and Avri Ruffcorn. Grace scored better than 99% of the nation’s juniors on the PSAT and Avri scored better than 94% of the nation’s juniors on the test. Grace and Averi will find out if they are Commended Scholars or National Merit Semi-Finalists in the fall of 2016.

Last year, seniors Ross Thedens and Adam Geodken scored in the 99 percentile and were named National Merit Scholars; they expect to hear final word on their finalist status later this month. Both students plan to take the SAT since their PSAT scores came back so well.

Principal Howard states, “These scores are exceptional and they are a credit to the students, parents and our entire staff. Without all of us working together to emphasize student achievement, they would not be possible. What a great success for Independence Community Schools and these talented and hardworking students.”

For more information on PSAT/NMSQT testing, please visit the College Board website at www.collegeboard.org.

###

Media Contact
Fusion Forward
319.334.9300