Union Springs High School senior Ellen Crowley has been named a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, placing her among the top-performing students nationwide.
She is one of about 34,000 students across the U.S. being recognized for exceptional academic promise based on their performance on the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT.
While Commended Students do not move forward in the National Merit competition, their scores placed them in the top 50,000 out of more than a million test takers.
“These students represent a valuable national resource,” a National Merit spokesperson said. “Recognizing their accomplishments is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.”
Union Springs Principal Jason Dentel praised Crowley’s achievement, calling it a reflection of her hard work and the school’s commitment to academic success.
“We are incredibly proud of Ellen for earning this recognition,” Dentel said. “Her dedication and excellence represent the very best of Union Springs High School.”

