Kapolei High student Mylia Briggs has been selected for the 54th class of US Presidential Scholars. Out of 3.6 million students expected to graduate in the US from high school this year, more than 5,200 candidates qualified for the 2018 awards. Mylia is one of 161 high school seniors nationwide being recognized for their accomplishments in academics, the arts and career and technical education fields.
“Congratulations to Mylia, her family and the Kapolei High ‘ohana. We are extremely proud of the hard work and dedication Mylia has shown throughout her academic career, which resulted in this prestigious national recognition,” said Superintendent Dr. Christina Kishimoto. “The Department looks forward to celebrating with Mylia and the rest of our seniors as graduation season kicks off this month.”
Briggs plans to double major in Business Management and Economics at the University of Hawaiʻi - West Oʻahu. During her time at Kapolei High, she participated in the Army Survivor Outreach Service, served on the Kapolei High Sakura Kai leadership team and is currently the president of the school’s National Honor Society. Briggs also volunteered for the Army Garrison Hawaii and was named 2014 Volunteer of the Year for her work at the Army Survivor Outreach Service Center.
As part of the US Presidential Scholar application, students submit a written piece on a teacher who has influenced him or her the most throughout their schooling. Briggs nominated Chemistry and Physics teacher Estan Reynon who has been teaching for 18 years, 13 of which have been at Kapolei High School.
“On behalf of Kapolei High, I’d like to congratulate Mylia and Estan on this wonderful honor,” added Principal Wesley Shinkawa. “They both play such a vital role on our campus through their compassion and service to students, staff and the community. We are so proud that their efforts are being recognized nationally.”
Maui High student Laney Flanagan was selected as a semifinalist for the program. She is also a 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program winner.
Established in 1964, by Executive Order of the President, the US Presidential Scholars Program honors graduating seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service and contribution to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students with exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts.
For more information about the US Presidential Scholars Program, click here.
