Three SPS seniors earn a National Merit scholarship

 

On May 13, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced 2,500 winners of National Merit Scholarships financed by U.S. colleges and universities. Three of the winners are current Springfield Public Schools seniors.

Brayden Miao and Madison Gong from Central High School and Shiv Bansal from Kickapoo High School received a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship to the university of their choice. 

These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the Finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®); contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the Finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official. 

Brayden, Madison and Shiv will graduate this Saturday, May 16, 2026.