DURHAM — Fifteen students from the middle schools of the Surry County School System were chosen in the 2008-09 talent search for state and grand recognition.

Competition is based on scores obtained on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), a test designed for above-average high school students in the 11th and 12th grades. It measures knowledge and skills rarely taught at the middle school level. To be recognized by the Duke University Talent Identification Program, students must have learned a great deal at home, by independent study, or by special instruction.

Thirty-four combined students from Central Middle, Gentry Middle, Meadowview Middle and Pilot Mountain Middle schools participated in January SAT administration, while 14 students earned qualifying scores to attend a state recognition ceremony at Wake Forest University on June 5. One student, Emily Chilton, qualified for grand recognition at Cameron Indoor Stadium on the Duke University campus.

The following students were recognized for their achievement in the top 25 percent of the Talent Search pool: Lindsey Badgett, Kim Bates, Emily Chilton, Riley Fillius, Kim Forest, Zach French, Chase Graham, Emily Gregory, Chris Holshouser, Jesse Kimel, Brittany Kirby, Holly Mason, Brooke Tickle and Zach Wilmoth.

“These are significant achievements, because the pool itself is highly selective and the scores are ones that many high school students aspire to achieve. I am extremely proud of these students and applaud their achievements,” commented Dr. Ashley F. Hinson Jr., superintendent.