SIS student is a Presidential Scholar candidate

Liske-Clark

Samantha Liske-Clark, a twelfth-grade student at Saipan International School, was named a candidate for the United States Presidential Scholars Program.

Each year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. Students have the opportunity to become U.S. Presidential Scholars based on three paths of accomplishment. The majority of scholars are selected on the broad base of academic achievement.

Liske-Clark is currently ranked No. 1 in her class at SIS and is an AP Capstone Diploma candidate. As a junior, she conducted an independent research project titled, “Comparative Growth Rates of Acropora globiceps in the Saipan Nursery.” She received the highest possible score for her work from the College Board. Liske-Clark plans on studying biology after graduating from SIS.

“Every academic experience I’ve had with Sam I’ve witnessed a level of thinking that puts her on level with graduate students,” said Whitney Altizer, SIS counselor and Liske-Clark’s AP Research teacher. “Her ability to question, analyze and make sense of her findings as a high schooler makes me excited to see where she goes from here.”

“This year, SIS will graduate its third class of AP Capstone Diploma Students and we are confident that Samantha will lead the way. Her commitment to her studies and her dedication to service at SIS and in the CNMI is exemplary,” said SIS Headmaster Dr. Ronald Snyder.

If she is named a scholar, Liske-Clark will be honored for her unique accomplishments at a National Recognition Program in Washington, D.C. As a guest of the Department of Education, scholars will receive an expense paid-trip to the Capitol where they will meet with government officials, educators and, ultimately receive the Presidential Scholars Medallion at a ceremony sponsored by the White House.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, 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. (PR)