Jacinta Felix Selected As A U.S. Presidential Scholar Nominee From Massachusetts

NAPS District

January 9, 2025

For more information contact:
Emily Schiavoni
Family and Community Outreach Coordinator
eschiavoni@napsk12.org
(413) 776-1458

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JACINTA FELIX SELECTED AS A U.S. PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR NOMINEE FROM MASSACHUSETTS

Massachusetts, January 2025 – The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), under the leadership of Acting Commissioner Russell D. Johnston, is pleased to announce that Jacinta Felix, a senior at Drury High School, has been selected as a Massachusetts nominee for the prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholar Award. This distinguished recognition places Jacinta among the most accomplished students in the Commonwealth.

The selection process for this year’s U.S. Presidential Scholars program was highly competitive, with numerous outstanding submissions from across Massachusetts during the month of October. Jacinta’s achievements and dedication to excellence stood out to the DESE review team, who were highly impressed with her submission.

“We are thrilled to have Jacinta represent Massachusetts as one of our Presidential Scholar nominees,” said Principal Stephanie Kopala. “Her hard work and accomplishments reflect the excellence we strive to foster in our schools, and we are excited to support her as she advances to the next stage of this esteemed program.”

As part of this nomination, Jacinta will be invited by the U.S. Department of Education's national review team to complete a new application for further consideration for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Award. 

“Jacinta’s outstanding academic and personal achievements demonstrate the excellence present in our students at Drury High School,” Dr. Barbara Malkas, Superintendent of North Adams Public Schools. “I thank Principal Stephanie Kopala and the entire school team for their support of Jacinta as she pursues this honor.”

Jacinta will be presented with this esteemed award during the Drury Student Recognition event scheduled for Wednesday, January 22th, 2025 at 1:30PM. Community members are invited to attend.

The U.S. Department of Education is expected to announce awardees later this spring. For further details on the U.S. Presidential Scholars program, please visit:

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