James Nowling receiving the certificate from Matt Kindberg, Southwestern High School principal. Submitted photo

James Nowling, a senior at Southwestern High School, has been named a 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program commended student.

According to high school principal Matt Kindberg, Nowling was initially nominated for this award based on his performance on the preliminary SAT national merit scholarship qualifying test during his junior year. Kindberg stated that the school first learned of Nowling’s nomination in the spring, and all have been eagerly awaiting the announcements of honorable mentions and finalists this fall. Nowling was officially honored as a “commended student” recently, being awarded honorable mention for his academic dedication and contributions to the school. To signify this accomplishment, the program gifted a certificate to Nowling, to serve as a reminder of all that has been accomplished, said Kindberg.

Kindberg made note of Nowling’s overwhelming joy and honor when notified of the award. Nowling appeared to be incredibly appreciative of having his hard work recognized in such a way, said Kindberg. Nowling was not the only person overjoyed about this recognition, as his parents seemed equally happy, if not more so. Kindberg stated that Nowling’s parents felt such pride and joy to see their son’s academic work recognized by this program.

“As a high school principal, it’s really awesome to be able to deliver good news like this to our students,” said Kindberg. “Those are really great opportunities to connect with our families and share good things that our students are doing here in the building.”

Kindberg spoke incredibly highly of Nowling’s accomplishments and participation within the school district. Nowling is a member of the school’s cross country team. Kindberg noted that Nowling is an active participant of the team, and noted that he has become an integral member. Kindberg states that he, and the rest of the administrators, remain so proud of the accomplishments and well-roundedness of the student body. Kindberg noted seeing large student accomplishment in academic areas, athletic areas, CTE programs, and from the more than half of students that participate in some combination of choir and orchestra. Administrators continue to be incredibly proud of all the ways students continually excel further in a variety of areas, said Kindberg.

“James has been, and continues to be, a pleasure to have here at Southwestern High School. I think that he’s taken full advantage of opportunities that have been afforded to him here,” stated Kindberg. “I’m really proud, certainly, of his recognition with this award and what he has done throughout his high school career.”