his year, as FISD celebrates a state-high number of 2026 National Merit Semifinalists, the District also recognizes the many ways these students contribute to their schools outside traditional academics.

Semifinalists earn distinction through their PSAT scores, but they are also among the most engaged students on campus, thanks to the student opportunity model. They play in orchestra and band, lead dance teams, serve as peer counselors, work as aides in the library and office, design sets for theater productions, serve as editor-in-chief of their school newspaper, compete in tennis and soccer, and so much more.

Of FISD’s 146 National Merit Semifinalists:

83 students, or 57%, are in fine arts, with the majority in orchestra, visual art or band

16 are in athletics

53 are taking career and technical education courses

32 are taking Collin College classes

13 are taking Independent Study and Mentorship, INCubatoredu or ACCELeratoredu classes

These 2026 Semifinalists have earned start-up funding through INCubatoredu, made All-State Band and Orchestra ensembles, played solos in marching band, competed in golf and earned professional certifications in CTE courses. With 57% participating in fine arts, Semifinalists outpace their high school peers’ 45% rate.

In short, Frisco ISD’s National Merit Semifinalists represent both academic achievement and the freedom to participate and lead in activities that shape them for the future.

“These students remind us that success takes many forms,” said Associate Deputy Superintendent Dr. Wes Cunningham. “Their creativity and leadership inspire us, and they reflect the very best of what it means to be a Frisco ISD student.”

PSAT day in Frisco ISD

The National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test is the PSAT, which Frisco ISD administers annually to 10th and 11th graders free of charge during the school day.

This year’s test is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 1. Learn more about the test, as well as arrival changes for ninth and 12th graders.