Presidential Scholars Program

Stored: Presidential Scholars Program

Presidential Scholars Program

Type	Program
Sponsor Organization	Department of Education
Top Organization	Department of Education
Creation Legislation	Executive Order 11155 by President Lyndon B. Johnson
Website	Website
Purpose	PSP honors top US high school grads for feats in academics, arts, CTE, & leadership/service, celebrating excellence to spur ongoing success.
Program Start	1964
Initial Funding	Not specified as part of a separate budget; funded through the Department of Education's general operations.
Duration	Ongoing
Historic	No

The Presidential Scholars Program recognizes and honors some of the nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, career and technical education, and for their commitment to leadership and service.

It celebrates excellence in various fields, promoting continued achievement and encouraging these young leaders to continue their pursuit of excellence in higher education and beyond.

Official Site

Goals

• Recognize outstanding student achievement in academics, arts, and career and technical education.
• Promote leadership, citizenship, and service among high school scholars.
• Celebrate diversity by acknowledging students from various backgrounds and disciplines.

Organization

The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Education's Commission on Presidential Scholars, composed of educators, artists, and distinguished citizens. Selection involves a rigorous process where candidates are initially nominated by state educational agencies, then evaluated by the Commission. Funding for the program is integrated into the Department's budget with no specific separate allocation mentioned.

History

The Presidential Scholars Program was established by Executive Order 11155Executive Order 11155 signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. It was initially focused on academic excellence but has since expanded to recognize achievements in the arts and career and technical education. Each year, up to 161 students are honored, including at least two from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad, plus additional scholars in special categories. Over time, the program has evolved to include a broader range of talent and achievement, reflecting changes in educational priorities and societal values.

Funding

The program does not have a publicly specified initial funding amount as it's part of the broader operations of the U.S. Department of Education. Funding for the Presidential Scholars Program is ongoing, supported by the department's annual budget, which covers the costs of the selection process, the annual ceremony in Washington, D.C., and associated events.

Implementation

The selection process begins with nominations from states, followed by a comprehensive review by the Commission on Presidential Scholars. Scholars are selected based on their academic and artistic achievements, essays, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities. The program culminates in an annual event where scholars are recognized by the President or the Secretary of Education, with scholarships or awards often provided by private organizations or educational institutions.

Related

• U.S. Department of Education
• National Merit Scholarship Program

External links

• https://www.ed.gov/programs/psp/
• wikipedia:Presidential Scholars Program

Social media

• There are no specific social media accounts for the Presidential Scholars Program; updates can be found via the U.S. Department of Education's social media.