Lakes High School Student Named U.S. Presidential Scholar

Lakes High School senior Dylan Pant is one of five Washington students to be awarded the U.S. Presidential Scholar, earning his award in the field of Career and Technical Education. It is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

Pant recognized Lakes teacher Randy Wilson as a Distinguished Teacher of the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 2015, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.  

Pant is an active member of the Lakes DECA program. He works as one of the managers of the school’s student store and qualified for the international DECA conference in Anaheim, Calif., in April in the student store category. 

He has a strong interest in computer science, served as a page for 28th District Senator T’wina Nobles and enjoys volunteering in the Lakewood community by serving as a member of the Lakewood Youth Council. 

Of the more than 3.7 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 5,700 qualified for the 2024 awards and up to 161 students are selected for the honor each year. Once selected, candidates complete essays and self-assessments, as well as submit school evaluations and transcripts. A review committee then evaluates candidates on their academic achievement, personal characteristics, leadership and service activities, and an analysis of their essay. The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars then selects the students who will receive the award.

Scholars are invited to name a teacher they consider to be the most influential in their knowledge, skills and impact on the school community. Pant chose to recognize Wilson for this honor.

“Mr. Wilson told me one day that I was qualified, and I should apply,” Pant said. “They use a very holistic viewpoint when looking at students for the program, so I knew I’d be evaluated based on everything I’ve done at school and in my community.” 

The 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars will receive a residential medallion in commemoration of their achievements during the online national recognition program this summer.