Wisconsin Seniors Named 2026 US Presidential Scholars
The Department of Education recognized two Wisconsin high school students for their academic and community achievements.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Secondary Education
Live Poll
Do you believe national academic programs effectively motivate high school students to achieve more?
In 2026, the US Department of Education selected 161 high school seniors nationwide as US Presidential Scholars. Among these honorees are Joel Janssen from Delavan-Darien High School and Elizabeth Matz from Onalaska High School.
Why it matters
The program celebrates top student achievement across academic, artistic, and technical fields. Recipients are chosen based on standardized test scores, essays, educator recommendations, and community leadership.
A total of 161 students were selected for the 2026 honor from a candidate pool of more than 6,700 high schoolers. The program criteria include standardized test performance, technical or artistic talent, and leadership.
The players
Joel Janssen
He is a 2026 US Presidential Scholar and a student at Delavan-Darien High School.
Elizabeth Matz
She is a 2026 US Presidential Scholar and a student at Onalaska High School.
US Department of Education
This federal agency oversees the administration of the Presidential Scholars program.
White House Commission on Presidential Scholars
This appointed body is responsible for the final selection of student honorees.
The details
Candidates undergo a rigorous evaluation by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars. This review process assesses academic excellence along with student essays and verified community contributions.
Timeline
1964: President Johnson established the program by executive order.
1979: The program expanded to include students in the arts.
2015: The program expanded to recognize career and technical education students.
2026: Two Wisconsin students named as US Presidential Scholars.
Culture Shift
The program follows the framework established by Executive Order 11155, which initially authorized the Presidential Scholars recognition. This 2026 cohort continues the merit-based recognition mandate established by that order over six decades ago.
Families and educators can use the selection criteria to guide student preparation for future academic cycles. Understanding the program's balance of testing and leadership helps local districts better support high-achieving candidates.
The takeaway
The Presidential Scholars program highlights the importance of combining academic test performance with community involvement. Students aiming for future recognition should focus on developing both their technical skills and their leadership experience in local activities.
Further reading
Find more updates on regional student achievements in Secondary Education.
Live Poll
Do you believe national academic programs effectively motivate high school students to achieve more?
