Two George Mason High School students have earned national recognition as National Merit Scholarship finalists.

Noelle Darling and Elinore McLain received letters this week notifying them that they are among an elite group of students nationwide who are eligible to compete for the prestigious academic scholarships. They were congratulated by their counselors Brad McAdam and Valerie Chesley.

Both were recognized during morning announcements at George Mason High School. The Mason students are among approximately 16,000 students nationally who are competing for 8,000 Merit Scholarships.