As graduation approaches, seniors are preparing for their futures and reflecting on their careers as students. Students like Senior Daniel Riachi can reflect and be proud of his accomplishments. This year, Riachi is the recipient of the National Merit Scholarship. He was one of 16,000 semifinalists in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

"Receiving a National Merit Scholarship assures me that I've been doing the right thing for the past four years," Riachi said. "I always knew that I've been working hard, but it is still motivating to receive recognition from a prestigious institution like NMSC."

USD 250 is proud of Riachi for this accomplishment.

"Since Daniel set foot on campus at Pittsburg High School, he has pursued his academic and pre-professional goals with excellence, drive, and determination. This has been evident in the classroom, in his musical and engineering activities, and in the time Daniel devotes to these passions and goals outside of the school day," PHS Principal Kelynn Heardt said. "Our team at PHS is very proud of Daniel being recognized as a National Merit Scholar finalist. We are confident this is only the beginning of a brilliant, bright, and successful future."

Next year Riachi will attend the University of Kansas pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. He has no detailed plans for his future but has many memories of his time at USD 250.

"All of my favorite memories involve performing, chanting, and just having high energy with the PHS band," Riachi reflects "Whether we were making music or performing a bizarre ritual, it was always a learning experience for everyone."