Alachua County Public Schools high school senior, Helena Jiang, has been named a U.S. Presidential Scholar. She is one of just 161 in the entire country.

To become a Presidential Scholar, much is taken into consideration, including academics, college entrance exams, school evaluations, essays, community service, transcripts and leadership.

“These exemplary young people have excelled inside the classroom and out,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in a news release about the selection. “And, while they are facing unprecedented challenges as they graduate from high school into a world that looks much different than it did just a few months ago, their determination, resilience and commitment to excellence will serve them well as they pursue their next steps.”

Jiang was a Buchholz High School senior, and some of her other accomplishments include being a 2020 National Merit Finalist, one of 150 2020 Coca Cola Scholars nationwide and one of 40 finalists nationwide in the 2020 Regeneron Science Talent Search to name a few.

“Helena has been a shining star in this district for years,” said Superintendent Karen Clarke. “We’re so proud of the national and even international recognition she’s earned, and we know she will go on to accomplish great things when she graduates from Alachua County Public Schools.”

The U.S. Department of Education said that the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars will be recognized over the summer if health circumstances allow it.

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