Birmingham Public Schools recently recognized its 2012-13 National Merit semifinalists from Seaholm High School and Groves High School.

Seven students from Seaholm and Groves were recognized this year. Each year, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation designates students as semifinalists as part of the first steps in the National Merit Scholarship process.

Semifinalist certificates are presented to one-third (16,000 students) of the approximately 50,000 high scoring students tested last fall every year in the PSAT, measuring critical reading, math and writing skills.

About 8,400 finalists will be selected this May to receive $2,500 Merit Scholarships, based on academic record, the rigor of each  school, two sets of test scores, the school's written recommendation, activities and leadership, and a personal essay.

Groves High School

• Tharron Combs
• Kelly Greer
• Christina Pastoria
• Rachael Stein
• Robert Swor

Seaholm High School

• Anna Collins
• Kimberly Lakocy