Distinctive Scholars
This program is the highest tier to the existing Honors College of Leadership and Service. Only ninth grade students who meet specific criteria including a qualifying PSTA 8/9 score, a weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher, and active status in the Honors College Program are invited to apply.iN
McDowell High School graduate the first class of Distinctive Scholars in 2020 with four students but quickly grew to a graduating class of 12 students in 2021.
Why be a distinctive scholar?
By committing to the requirements to be a Distinctive Scholar, the student can set themselves apart in the classroom by demonstrating not only their commitment to academic rigor and continuous improvement but also a passion for learning while working both collaboratively and independently. The most significant benefit of being a Distinctive Scholar is preferred access to the AP Capstone, a college-level program for high school students that complements and enhances discipline specific AP courses. As a McDowell Distinctive Scholar, the student will also earn additional recognition beyond the AP Capstone Diploma as a student who has excelled In a rigorous, holistic learning environment.
McDowell High School Class of 2021 Awards of Distinction
Sophia Beilharz, Adelaide Bischof, Caleb Brobst, Nydia Clement, Aashka Gupta, Siyoung Kim, Matthew Lee, Sharon Liu, Grace Shaw, Audrey Stout, Matthew Su, Ethan Yeung