The Board of Education is proud to recognize Brien McMahon High School Senior Jacob Kolman for being named a National Merit Scholarship Corporation Semifinalist. We also recognize Brien McMahon Seniors Sofia Cabrera and Isabella De Jesus, and Norwalk High School Junior Andrea Mejia for being named National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars.

Jacob Kolman is one of approximately 16,000 semifinalists included in the prestigious 67th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected based on their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors.

A perceptive and sharp individual with a high aptitude for math and science, Jacob is self-driven to understand how things work, whether it be the 100-year-old math problem, or exploring the forces that hold our universe together. As a junior, he joined the International Baccalaureate program and is a career-related Programme Diploma candidate. This program integrates IB classes with Project Lead the Way classes in the STEM field. Not only does Jacob excel at his academics, he is also a member of the musical technology department, co-captain of the math team, a leading member of the robotics team, and a member of the BMHS golf team. 

The National Hispanic Recognition Program grant provides underrepresented students with academic honors that can be included on college and scholarship applications and connect students with universities across the country, helping them stand out during the admissions process. Colleges and scholarship programs use these honors to identify students from underrepresented groups through College Board’s Student Search Service.

Brien McMahon Seniors Sofia Cabrera and Isabella De Jesus, and Norwalk High School Junior Andrea Mejia are three out of approximately 5,000 Hispanic/Latino juniors recognized this year.

Norwalk High School Grade 11 Student Andrea Mejia has excelled in the classroom and made a significant impact within the school community. Andrea has maintained a cumulative grade point average of 4.038, while taking a demanding course of study including Advanced Placement classes, Honors classes, and two world language classes. Andrea is a two-sport athlete with the field hockey and tennis teams. Additionally, she has held several leadership positions such as class president, AP ambassador, and Helping Hands student-leader. Andrea is also involved in a myriad of service programs including fundraising campaigns for Bears Beating Cancer and serving as a student ambassador and role-model assisting multilanguage learners to assimilate to our community.

Isabella De Jesus is a well-rounded student who has a passion for math and humanities. Isabella’s hard work, perseverance and consistent effort to improve herself and the world around her are evident in all that she does academically and in her community. She is currently enrolled in one of the most rigorous programs at BMHS. As a junior, she joined the International Baccalaureate program as an IB Diploma candidate. Isabella is also a passionate member of the student government, and is involved in theater and Caporales Bolivian dancing.  

Sofia Cabrera is a highly motivated and intelligent student who excels in math and science. Her consistent determination, perseverance and patience are evident in all that she has done throughout her academic career. Sofia has been an enthusiastic member of the Brien McMahon Healthcare Academy, and is planning on continuing her healthcare career in college and beyond. Additionally, Sofia is an executive member of the Center for Youth Leadership and a passionate contributor to the Hidden Voices club. 

The Board of Education honors Jacob, Sofia, Isabella and Andrea this evening for your hard work and dedication. We wish you all the best of luck with your future endeavors and know that you will continue to represent Norwalk throughout your academic career and beyond.