​Two Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas seniors have been named candidates for the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

Rayyan Boughaleb Hassani of Harmony School of Endeavor-Austin and Anna Browning of Harmony Science Academy-Pflugerville were selected as candidates based on their exceptional academic achievement. They are two of 183 students from Texas named as candidates this year.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, established in 1964, recognizes the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in academics, leadership and service. Each year, students are selected from across the country for their outstanding performance on national assessments and their demonstrated commitment to excellence.

Candidates now advance in the competitive application process, which includes essays, self-assessments, school reports and transcripts. A distinguished panel of educators reviews submissions before selecting semifinalists and finalists. Ultimately, up to 161 students nationwide are named U.S. Presidential Scholars.

Being named a candidate places Rayyan and Anna among an elite group of students across Texas and the nation.

“At Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas, we believe excellence is built through dedication, curiosity and a commitment to serving others,” said Dr. Altindag, Area Superintendent of Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas. “Rayyan and Anna represent the very best of our mission. We are incredibly proud of their achievement and excited to see what comes next.”

The U.S. Department of Education will announce semifinalists in the spring, with scholars recognized later in the year.

Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas blends the highest standards and expectations with a rigorous, math- and science-centered STEM curriculum and dedicated, engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers, and life. At Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. There are nine campuses in the Austin Metroplex: Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Leander, and Pflugerville.

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About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools comprises more than 60 high-performing PreK-12 college-preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers, and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools, please visit harmonytx.org. Harmony is currently accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. Students may apply at harmonytx.org/apply.