North Royalton High School

North Royalton High School senior Albert Armin has been named a semifinalist in the prestigious 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, placing him among just 627 students selected nationwide from more than 6,500 candidates. Of the over 150,000 graduating seniors in Ohio, only 21 were chosen as Presidential Scholar semifinalists. 

The honor, announced by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their academic achievement, leadership, service, and talent.

As part of the notification sent to semifinalists, the Department of Education described the recognition as “a great honor and an exceptional accomplishment” and commended students for the “creativity, discipline, and pursuit of excellence” demonstrated throughout their high school careers. Albert’s original scientific research, self-published book, and service as a youth leader in the Red Cross were all among the activities that earned him this distinction.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors. Finalists selected as U.S. Presidential Scholars are announced later this year by U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.

In addition to Albert’s selection as a semifinalist, he also scored a perfect 36 on his most recent ACT test in April. This is one of the highest academic distinctions possible for high school students. Only about one-quarter of 1% of students nationwide achieve a top ACT composite score. The ACT is a curriculum-based achievement exam that measures college readiness in English, math, and reading. Students who earn a 36 composite score have demonstrated exceptional mastery of the skills and knowledge needed for success in college-level coursework.