Alamogordo High School Senior Jayson Coleman Named National Merit Semifinalist

ALAMOGORDO, NM — Alamogordo High School senior Jayson Coleman has been named a 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist, placing him among the top academic achievers in the nation. The announcement, released by Alamogordo Public Schools on October 8, highlights Coleman’s exceptional performance on the PSAT/NMSQT and his commitment to academic excellence.

Coleman is one of approximately 16,000 students nationwide to earn semifinalist status, a distinction awarded to less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors each year. He now advances to the finalist stage, where he will compete for one of 6,870 National Merit Scholarships totaling nearly $26 million to be awarded in spring 2026.

"I was pretty excited when I found out, and I'm eager to continue the process to become a Finalist," said Jayson Coleman. "Earning a scholarship will be key to pursuing my goal of studying computer science.

I'm thankful for all my teachers who have helped me along the way."

Coleman, an Alamogordo resident since kindergarten, excels particularly in mathematics, his favorite subject, and is highly active in the local robotics community as a member of the ASTRO Vikings team.

He credits consistent hard work and paying attention in class, along with utilizing free online resources for test preparation, as key factors in his success.

AHS Principal, April Shay, shared, “Jayson is set to finish high school at the top of his class with a substantial amount of college credits, and I feel this quote by Thomas Jefferson represents him.‘I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.’ Jason likes to learn for the sake of learning; he devours knowledge!”

“Over the past three years, as both his teacher and robotics coach, I have been consistently impressed by Jayson Coleman’s intellectual curiosity, perseverance, quiet determination, and leadership. He combines analytical precision with creativity, approaching every challenge, whether in the classroom or on the robotics field, with integrity and purpose. Jayson embodies what it means to be a FIRST robotics student, understanding that Gracious Professionalism is more than a core value; it is a lifestyle.

His recognition as a National Merit Scholar Semifinalist is a reflection of his passion for learning and commitment to excellence,” shared Dr. Sarah Cerra

To reach semifinalist status, students must score among the highest in their state on the PSAT/NMSQT, taken during their junior year. Finalists are selected based on a comprehensive application that includes academic records, extracurricular involvement, leadership experience, and a personal essay. They must also earn qualifying scores on the SAT or ACT and receive a recommendation from a school official.

Coleman’s recognition continues Alamogordo High School’s tradition of academic excellence. Earlier this year, fellow two other local seniors were also named National Merit Semifinalists, making 2025 a standout year for the district.

The National Merit Scholarship Program, established in 1955, is one of the most prestigious academic competitions in the country. It aims to promote respect for learning, spotlight exceptional talent, and encourage support for educational advancement.

As Coleman prepares to submit his finalist application, his achievement serves as a source of pride for the Alamogordo community and a powerful example of what local students can accomplish on the national stage.

For more updates on student achievements and education news in Otero County, follow 2nd Life Media and AlamogordoTownNews.org.

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