Carmel Clay Schools is proud to announce that two of our graduating seniors have been named as part of the 59th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars for the 2023 academic year. This prestigious honor is awarded to only 161 high school seniors across the United States, representing excellence in academic achievement, leadership, and community service. 

Congratulations to Carmel High School seniors Archit Kalra and Amogha Medha Paleru on this prestigious distinction. Both students have demonstrated exceptional academic abilities, achieving outstanding grades throughout their high school careers. In addition to their academic achievements, they have also exhibited strong leadership skills and a commitment to serving the community.

Out of 3.7 million graduating seniors, around 5,000 qualify based on exams and nominations. Three CHS students were named semi-finalists. Each year two top scholars are honored from each state, along with at-large winners. This marks the third year in a row Carmel High School has had at least one honoree.

The Presidential Scholars program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President of the United States to recognize and honor some of the nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. 

Carmel Clay Schools is extremely proud of Archit and Amogha for their outstanding achievements. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence are a true inspiration to us all. We wish them all the best as they continue on their academic journey.

Archit Kalra

• GPA: 4.74
• Attending Yale University
• Anticipated major: Neuroscience and Economics
• Favorite subject: Biology (neuroscience)
• Extracurriculars and/or community involvement:
  • Aerospace, astrophysics, and biomedical engineering research
  • Online tutoring with a student-run nonprofit (Iridium Tutoring)
  • Co-Editor-in-Chief of HiLite (school news)
  • Competitive Scrabble (organize annual Youth Scrabble State Championship)
  • Quiz Bowl
  • Bhangra (traditional Indian folk dance)
  • Snow removal business (SnowGone)

Amogha Paleru

• GPA: 4.77
• Attending Stanford University
• Anticipated major: Human Biology; Public Policy/Economics on Pre-Medical Path
• Favorite subject: Interested in biology and science, but I thoroughly enjoy economics and social studies as well.
• Extracurriculars and/or community involvement:
  • Classical Indian Dance (Bharatanatyam) performed at Carnegie Hall, Disney; Professional Debut (July 2023); Dance Teacher
  • Economics Challenge, competing at Nationals in NYC May 2023
  • HOSA Future Health Professionals - Internationals 4th Medical Innovation; multiple-time state winner
  • TASSEL (Teaching and Sharing Skills to Enrich Lives) Cambodia Volunteer Teacher
  • Tennis and Tae Kwon Do