Midland ISD students earned national recognition this year through the National Merit Scholarship Program, one of the country’s most competitive academic distinctions.
According to a news release, based on PSAT/NMSQT scores from their junior year, students were named either National Merit Semifinalists or Commended Students. This reflects exceptional academic achievement in a state where qualifying standards are among the highest nationwide. Two MISD students were named National Merit Semifinalists: Jillian Bejil of Young Women’s Leadership Academy and Gabriel Stromberg of Legacy High School. Both students were recognized for sustained academic excellence supported by years of instruction and mentorship. Bejil said the recognition could help her graduate debt-free and shape her future career opportunities.
Additional MISD students were named Commended Students, including Noah Lopez of Midland High School, Olivia Lee of Legacy High School, and Brinda Potluri of YWLA. Several students credited their success to early academic foundations built in MISD elementary and middle schools, repeated exposure to PSAT testing, and rigorous coursework that emphasized preparation, discipline, and high expectations.
District leaders noted that National Merit recognition opens doors to top universities and significant scholarship opportunities. MISD students are considering fields such as engineering, medicine, computer science, and law. The achievements build on past success, including Legacy High School alumnus Trey Rolston, a former National Merit Semifinalist now attending the University of Texas at Austin on a full-ride Forty Acres Scholarship.
The Midland Independent School District aims to enhance student achievement and support diverse groups through targeted educational and assistance programs. It operates under the direction of Superintendent Stephanie Howard, an educator with a doctorate and experience in other districts.
The district collaborates with the Midland Education Foundation to finance initiatives in academics, fine arts, robotics, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), history and other areas. It provides educational services focusing on these subjects through partnerships while functioning as a public education entity overseeing programs in alignment with state guidelines.
The Midland Independent School District marked a key development with the 1885 establishment of Midland County and its original one-room schoolhouse.