The Vermont Agency of Education announced Vermont’s Presidential Scholar recipients and honorable mentions for the 2024–2025 school year in a recognition ceremony at the Vermont State House last night.
Presidential scholars are recognized in three categories: general, arts, and career technical education. Students are selected based on nominations from teachers and administrators, and in Vermont’s spirit of student agency, students are also able to nominate themselves.
"The 2025 class of Presidential Scholars embodies what makes Vermont’s education system special," said Secretary of Education, Zoie Saunders. "These students are leaders in their schools, role models for their peers, and important members of their communities. I’m thrilled to congratulate these exceptional students and their families on this exciting achievement.”
Vermont's 2025 Presidential Scholars exemplify exceptional achievements across academic excellence, community service, and leadership roles.
A complete list of Vermont's 2025 Presidential Scholars can be found on the AOE's Awards and Recognition webpage.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, through an executive order by President Johnson, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.
Vermont scholars for the general and CTE categories will be invited to apply to the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, which will announce its winners in the spring. Additional Vermont students are invited to apply by the U.S. Department of Education based on their SAT and/or ACT scores. Each year, up to 161 students are named as national Presidential Scholars — one of the highest national honors for high school students.