Two Mankato Area Public Schools Seniors Named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Two Mankato Area Public Schools seniors have been named semifinalists in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Kamryn Hoffman of Mankato East High School and Leila Pratt of Mankato West High School are among more than 16,000 semifinalists recognized nationwide for their academic achievement.

“Kamryn’s recognition as a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist is an outstanding accomplishment and a reflection of the commitment she has shown to her education,” Mankato East Principal Akram Osman said. “Our entire East High School community is proud to celebrate Kamryn and all she has achieved.”

“This recognition speaks to Leila’s hard work and dedication throughout her high school career,” Mankato West Principal Sherri Blasing said. “We are incredibly proud of Leila and excited to see where her talents and determination take her next.”

More than 1.3 million students entered the 2027 competition by taking the 2025 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Semifinalists represent less than 1% of high school seniors nationwide and include the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

Hoffman and Pratt now have the opportunity to advance to finalist standing and compete for approximately 6,700 National Merit Scholarships that will be awarded in 2027.

Kamryn Hoffman

Leila Pratt