Pasco senior gets a 2026 National Merit nod. She tested in top 2% nationally
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- Elise Valdez earned 2026 National Merit Commended Scholar status for top 2–3% testing ability.
- Valdez balances band, NHS, varsity tennis and Running Start attendance.
- She aims for University of Washington admission and a career in optometry.
Elise Valdez’s efforts go beyond the Pasco High School campus.
In addition to being an active member with the school’s marching band and color guard, National Honor Society and varsity tennis, the high school senior is also pursuing her associate’s degree through Running Start.
This fall, she added another accomplishment to her belt: She’s been recognized as a 2026 National Merit Commended Scholar for testing in the top 2-3% nationally on the 2024 Preliminary SAT college exam.
She joins the top ranks of those students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program for their superior marks. Commended scholars tested in the top 50,000 out of more than 1.5 million.
In early September, the organization announced four Tri-City seniors who placed in the top 16,000 and were eligible to compete for nearly 7,000 scholarships worth $26 million. Those semi-finalist students represent less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors.
But unlike semi-finalists, who are selected proportionally to state populations, commended scholars compete against other students across the nation.
“Elise is an extraordinary student whose work ethic and determination inspire everyone around her,” said Principal Veronica Machado in a statement. “Her recognition as a National Merit Commended Scholar is a reflection of her dedication, intelligence and commitment to excellence. We are incredibly proud of her and know she has a bright future ahead.”
These students, according to a National Merit staffer, represent “a valuable national resource” and should be recognized for their educational excellence.
While commended students do not continue in the National Merit Scholarship selection, several will be candidates for special scholarships offered by corporate sponsors.
Valdez comes from a family of high achievers. Both of her older sisters have been recognized as National Merit semi-finalists, and she credits the family’s shared drive and academic discipline to her mother.
Valdez has applied to attend University of Washington, where she hopes to pursue a career as an optometrist.
