Joliet, IL – A Joliet West High School senior has earned statewide recognition after being named a National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist, making him the only student in the city to achieve the distinction this year.
According to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, senior Caleb Price is one of just 748 students in Illinois selected as a 2026 Semifinalist. The honor is awarded to fewer than 1% of U.S. high school seniors, chosen from more than 1.3 million students nationwide who entered through the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).
Price will now compete for more than 6,900 scholarships totaling $26 million, to be awarded in spring 2026. To advance to Finalist standing, he must submit an application demonstrating academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and strong test scores.
“Caleb’s recognition as a National Merit Semifinalist is a proud moment for Joliet West and our entire community,” Principal Tecara Parker said. “We are honored to see him represent our school and our city.”
Roughly 95% of Semifinalists advance to become Finalists, with about half of those earning a scholarship. Founded in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes and supports the nation’s top academic talent in partnership with more than 300 colleges, universities, and corporations.
For more details, visit www.nationalmerit.org.
