Two students from Apache Junction High School, Scott Imus and Hailey Butel, have earned a spot among the top 10% of students nationwide on the PSAT.

“This impressive accomplishment highlights their dedication, academic skill and hard work. The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a challenging exam that acts as both practice for the SAT and a qualifier for scholarships and recognition, including the National Merit Scholarship Program,” according to a release from Apache Junction Unified School District.

Scoring in the top 10% nationwide is a major achievement and places Scott and Hailey among the top students in the country, the release states.

“We’re incredibly proud of Scott and Hailey for this achievement,” Principal Lisa Ginn said. “Their hard work and determination to succeed has truly paid off, and this accomplishment reflects the support they’ve received from their teachers and the whole school community.”

“This is a huge accomplishment for Scott and Hailey, and we couldn’t be happier for them,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Pappalardo said. “Their success shows just how much our students can achieve when they put in the effort, and it’s a great reflection of the strength of the educators in our district.”