Merit Scholars is a rigorous college preparatory program committed to preparing students for college level work. In preparing students for higher education, the Merit Scholars curriculum exceeds the minimum UC/CSU subject requirements for admission. All students are required to take a minimum of three Advanced Placement courses. Students who excel in the program will not only be prepared for the college of their choice, but will earn a Distinguished Merit Scholar Medal upon graduation.

Entrance Requirements for the Merit Scholar Program include:

1. A competitive High School Index Score (Total possible points=600).  The High School Index Score includes the 6^th and 7^th grade GPA plus English and Math CST scores.   
2. Proficient/Advanced Proficient scores in English and Math CST. 
3. Good citizenship and attendance

Students must apply for Merit Scholars in the Special Program section of the High School Choice Application.

 

Features Benefits:

Merit Scholars can take advantage of the educational and extracurricular opportunities available at Lakewood High School.

Parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators actively support these outstanding students as they strive to discover their academic potential..

Upon completion of the Merit Scholars program, students qualify for admission to internationally acclaimed universities.

At graduation all Merit Scholar students will wear a white chord designating their Merit Scholar Smaller Learning Community (SLC).
 

Merit Scholars’ Honors / Distinction:

To graduate as a Distinguished Merit Scholar, the following program of study must be completed:

1. Take a full schedule of classes each year and complete at least 19 solid subjects (Solid subjects are those on the Univ. of California “a-g” list)
2. Complete at least three Advanced Placement classes, including AP English Literature
3. Complete mathematics through Pre-Calculus
4. Complete three years of laboratory science and three years of the same foreign language
5. Have a minimum 3.3 un-weighted academic cumulative grade point average by the end of thefirst semester of senior year

Academic Program of Study

Upon completion of the adopted curriculum, Merit Scholars are prepared to excel at the university level. Each student is expected to complete the University of California “a-g” requirements. (see Course Matrix for specific courses)

CaliforniaState University and University of California “a-g” Subject Requirements           

   (D grades are not accepted)

1.  History/Social Science: 2 years
2. English: 4 years
3. Mathematics: 3 years
4. Laboratory Science: 2 years
5. Language other than English: 2 years
6. Visual or Performing Arts: 1 year
7. College Preparatory Elective: 1 year

Due to the competition for admission into higher education, Merit Scholars are advised and encouraged to challenge themselves with four years of mathematics, three years of laboratory science, and three years of language other than English. 

Recognition:  Merit Scholars are recognized every quarter, semester, and year to hallmark their endeavors.

Career Pathways:Students who excel in the program are prepared to choose from multiple career pathways and college/university options.

The Merit Scholars Parent Booster Club:meets monthly and serves as an active support for our program.