Marth, Wittine Named National Merit Commended Students

Westonka High School seniors James Marth and Ava Wittine have been named Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. Principal Jolene Herfel presented Marth and Wittine each with a Letter of Commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

“We are excited for seniors Ava and James; their accomplishment is a culmination of years of effort, habit and focus,” said Herfel. “They dedicate a great deal of energy to their academic growth and both of them are well rounded students who give back to our school as leaders in many aspects.” 

About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized this year for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2026 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who took the PSAT in 2025.

“Those being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” commented a National Merit spokesperson. “We hope that this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.”