Souderton recognizes National Merit Scholars and spotlights new Unified Strength & Conditioning program

The Souderton Area School District Board recognized the district's National Merit semifinalists and commended students and heard a student spotlight on a new Unified Strength & Conditioning program.

Superintendent Dr. Gallagher introduced the National Merit recognition, saying the semifinalists and commended students earned distinction based on PSAT performance. Two students were named semifinalists: Pranati Jamilamadaka and Noah Utane. Administrators listed additional commended students, including Prenil Jhamalotika, Sawyer Jones, Matthew Kennedy, Bridal Longenecker, Navia Visaraju and Calvin Zhang.

Dr. Gallagher and board members praised the students, with the board moving and seconding a motion to formally recognize them; the board approved that recognition by voice vote. "You simply are some of the best and brightest in the entire nation," Mr. Taylor said in thanking students and families.

The meeting also featured a student-produced spotlight video on the district's first Unified Strength & Conditioning program. Students and presenters described team workouts, inclusion of partners and an upcoming first meet against six area schools. Booster-club involvement was acknowledged and the board thanked program volunteers.

Student representatives reported on recent school events and athletics. Senior Nerika summarized an International Culture Fest and fundraising for the greenhouse ("we raised over 2,000" to support greenhouse programs) and thanked staff advisors; junior Sarah provided an athletics update: winter sports began Nov. 17, cheer qualified for states and wrestling and basketball teams were off to strong starts.

The board encouraged continued student involvement and invited the community to view concert broadcasts on SCTV over the holiday season.