Lemont High School Shines: Four Seniors Named National Merit Commended Students

There's a wonderful sense of pride radiating from Lemont High School these days, and it's all thanks to four remarkable seniors: Adam Dunkin, Benjamin Petri, Ishan Samani, and Haley Young. These bright young minds have just earned the prestigious title of National Merit Commended Students, a recognition that truly shines a spotlight on their academic excellence. It's quite an achievement, one that puts them squarely among the top students nationwide.

This impressive designation isn't just handed out; it's earned through exceptional performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). These students, now seniors in the Class of 2027, took the challenging exam way back in October of 2025, and their dedication clearly paid off. Think about it: they were juniors at the time, facing a test that helps determine future scholarship opportunities.

To really put this into perspective, let's talk numbers. More than 1.2 million high school juniors across the U.S. sat for the PSAT/NMSQT in October 2025. Out of that massive pool, only about 34,000 students — roughly the top five percent — receive this "Commended" recognition. So, when we say Adam, Benjamin, Ishan, and Haley are among the best, we mean it literally. Their scores placed them in an elite group, showcasing a level of academic prowess that's truly commendable.

For Lemont High School, having four students achieve such a high national honor is a testament not only to their individual brilliance and hard work but also to the supportive educational environment provided by the school and their families. It's a moment to celebrate these students as they embark on their senior year, with their futures looking incredibly promising. Congratulations to Adam, Benjamin, Ishan, and Haley — your community is incredibly proud of your outstanding accomplishments!