CARROLLTON, GA – Carrollton High School Class of 2026 graduate Amira Dhople has been named a semifinalist in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Out of 6,500 highly competitive candidates, Amira’s selection by the U.S. Department of Education designates her as one of the elite students in the country, with only 17 chosen from the state of Georgia.  

The candidates were selected from nearly 3.9 million students estimated to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2026. Currently, 627 semifinalists have been selected, and each year, up to 161 students will receive the honor of being named U.S. Presidential Scholars. Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating seniors. Scholars are selected based on superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character, and involvement in community and school activities.

Amira’s high school career goes above and beyond that of the average student. From taking the most challenging courses to participating in a wide variety of extracurriculars, she fully committed to making the most out of her high school experience. As an International Baccalaureate diploma recipient, she conducted extensive research through her academic studies, coordinated community events, and even founded Carrollton’s first Teen Youth Court. She is the daughter of Pamela Fox-Dhople and Dr. Anil Dhople. 

“Amira has been a remarkable student leader at CHS, and she truly deserves this national recognition,” said CHS Principal Dr. Ian Lyle. “We are so proud of her and celebrate this achievement as she moves into the final round of this distinguished program.”

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields. 

Having passed through intensive evaluation, Amira will now await a subsequent round of review to determine the finalists, who will be announced this summer.