NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Jacinta Felix, a senior at Drury High School, has been selected as a Massachusetts nominee for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Award, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) announced.

 

Acting Commissioner Russell D. Johnston praised Felix's selection, which places her among the top students in the Commonwealth. The selection process was highly competitive, with submissions evaluated by the DESE review team in October.

 

"We are thrilled to have Jacinta represent Massachusetts as one of our Presidential Scholar nominees," said Drury High School Principal Stephanie Kopala. "Her hard work and accomplishments reflect the excellence we strive to foster in our schools."

 

Felix's nomination will advance to the U.S. Department of Education's national review team, which will invite her to submit an application for further consideration for the award.

 

"Jacinta's outstanding academic and personal achievements demonstrate the excellence present in our students at Drury High School," said Barbara Malkas, Superintendent of North Adams Public Schools. "We thank Principal Kopala and the school team for their support as Jacinta pursues this honor."

 

Felix will be honored during the Drury Student Recognition event on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, at 1:30 PM. Community members are invited to attend.

 

The U.S. Department of Education is expected to announce Presidential Scholar awardees later this spring.