Fort Walton Beach High School senior Keira Foy has been named a Semifinalist in the 2027 National Merit®
Scholarship Program.
Foy is among more than 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide selected from more than 1.2
million students who entered the competition by taking the 2025 PSAT/NMSQT® in the fall of their junior
year.
The Semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. “We are incredibly proud of
Keira and this well-deserved recognition,” said Fort Walton Beach High School Principal Lindsey Smith. “This
achievement reflects her determination, commitment, and love of learning. She is an outstanding representative
of Fort Walton Beach High School, and we are excited to support her as she continues toward the Finalist
level.”
More than 15,000 Semifinalists are expected to advance to the Finalist level, with approximately 6,700 National
Merit Scholarships worth about $24 million expected to be awarded in spring 2027.“Being named a National
Merit Semifinalist is an outstanding accomplishment and a tremendous reflection of Keira’s dedication and hard
work,” said Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “We are incredibly proud of
what she has accomplished and the commitment she has shown throughout her high school career. Keira
represents the tremendous potential of our students, and we look forward to seeing all she will accomplish in the
years ahead.”
Image: Fort Walton Beach High School Principal Lindsey Smith, Keira Foy, and Foy’s Calculus teacher, Tracy McWilliams
