The honor recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional talent in career and technical education fields, in the visual, creative, and performing arts, or on academic assessments. Up to 161 students are selected each year. Two are picked from each state, and the recognition is also extended to 15 scholars chosen at-large, 20 scholars in the arts and 20 scholars in CTE fields.
"Washington’s students have worked hard and their accomplishments in academics, leadership, and service speak for themselves. I look forward to their success in the careers and pathways that they choose."Since 1964, the U.S. Department of Education has picked high school seniors from across the country for recognition as U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.