Brentwood High School senior Natalie Kuelker has been recognized as a Commended Student in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, placing her among the nation’s highest-achieving high school students.

Kuelker is one of approximately 34,000 students nationwide receiving the distinction based on their performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The recognition is awarded to students whose scores place them in the top 3% to 4% of those who entered the National Merit Scholarship Program during their junior year.

“Natalie is an exceptional student whose drive to learn is matched by her willingness to lead, serve and get involved,” said Brentwood High School Principal Dr. Greg Fick. “She has challenged herself academically while also making a meaningful impact throughout our school community. We are incredibly proud of Natalie and excited to celebrate this well-deserved national recognition.”

Kuelker has maintained a 4.0 grade-point average while taking a rigorous course load that includes Advanced Placement and college credit courses. She earned a 35 on the ACT and was selected to attend the 2025 Missouri Scholars Academy, a three-week residential program for academically gifted students from across the state.

Beyond the classroom, Kuelker serves as captain of the cross country team and is a two-time state qualifier. She is a member of the Scholar Bowl team, which competed at the Small Schools National Championship Tournament, and serves as a builder and drive captain for the Nerdy Birds Robotics Team. Kuelker has also earned the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish.

Each year, the National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes approximately 50,000 academically talented high school students nationwide, including about 16,000 Semifinalists and 34,000 Commended Students. While Commended Students do not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, they receive a Letter of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic achievement.

Kuelker joins fellow senior Odyss Morgan, who was named a National Merit Semifinalist earlier this month, in earning national recognition through this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program.