Five Parkland High School seniors - Prathysha Kothare, Ankhitha Manjunatha, Tanya Mehta, Dharshan Tharumia and Taran Anantasagar - were named candidates in the U.S. Presidential Scholars program on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in the community and school activities.

The scholars represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in young people.

A review committee of qualified individuals experienced in secondary and postsecondary education evaluates candidates on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership and service activities, and an analysis of their essay.

Approximately 800 candidates are named semifinalists and forwarded to the Commission on Presidential Scholars for further review.

All Arts nominees submitting candidacy materials are automatically advanced to the semifinalist stage.

In April, the commission reviews the applications of all semifinalists based on the same criteria used by the review committee and then selects up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars each year.

All scholars are honored for their accomplishments during the National Recognition Program in June in Washington, D.C.

U.S. Presidential Scholars are guests of the commission during the program and enjoy an expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C., to meet with government officials, educators and other accomplished people.

To commemorate their achievement, the scholars are awarded the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion at a ceremony sponsored by the White House.