BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — Eight North Dakota high school students have been named as semifinalists for recognition as U.S. Presidential Scholars. These are students who represent the best in academic excellence, leadership, and service. Each year, 161 of the nation’s top high school graduates are chosen to be U.S. Presidential Scholars and are honored by the United States Department of Education. These Scholars go on to advance the arts, culture, business, education, and civic life of the nation.