Press Release
Contact: Ronald Gonzales-Lawrence
Date: September 14, 2026
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (909) 397-4800 ext. 23885
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Diamond Ranch Senior
Amara Beatty
Named 2027 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist
POMONA, Calif. — Pomona Unified School District is proud to recognize Diamond Ranch High School senior Amara Beatty, who has been named a Semifinalist in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, earning recognition among some of the nation’s highest-achieving high school seniors.
A 17-year-old senior and 13-year PUSD student, Amara attended Ranch Hills Elementary School and Lorbeer Middle School before continuing her education at Diamond Ranch High School. Throughout her time in PUSD, she has distinguished herself through academic excellence, curiosity, service, and a willingness to challenge herself.
Amara learned about her National Merit recognition after being unexpectedly called to the counseling office during her Mandarin class. Unsure why she had been asked to bring all of her belongings with her, she arrived to find her counselor and principal waiting to share the news.
“I was overjoyed because it felt like all of my hard work had paid off,” Amara said.
For Amara, being named a National Merit Semifinalist represents more than an academic honor.
“Being named a Semifinalist feels extremely validating,” she said. “It helps me know that these past four years, all of my hard work hasn’t been for nothing.”
Amara credits her family and counselor with encouraging her throughout her academic journey and believing in her potential. She is motivated by a desire to challenge herself, continue learning, and become the best version of herself she can be.
One of her greatest academic passions is mathematics.
“I enjoy working through problems, and a lot of the time it feels like a game I am trying to beat,” she said.
That passion has extended beyond the classroom. Amara and a fellow student helped establish a Math Field Day team at Diamond Ranch, creating teams for freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Their efforts culminated in students earning medals at the Los Angeles County competition, an accomplishment Amara considers among her proudest.
“Amara represents the very best of what we hope for every PUSD student: someone who is curious, driven, willing to challenge herself, and committed to creating a bright future,” said Board President, Dr. Lisa Nashua. “Her National Merit recognition is a tremendous accomplishment, and we are proud to celebrate her hard work and perseverance. We know this is only the beginning of what Amara will achieve.”
Her experience at Diamond Ranch has also taught her an important lesson: success does not mean having to do everything alone. Amara said learning to ask for help was once a challenge, but she has come to recognize the importance of reaching out to the teachers, counselors, family members, and others who want to see her succeed.
Outside of academics, Amara enjoys spending time with friends, caring for her dog and fish, playing games, and giving back to her community through Realize the Dream. She also enjoys Diamond Ranch’s school rallies and the opportunity to come together with her fellow Panthers to celebrate their school community.
As she looks toward life after high school, Amara hopes to study civil engineering at UCLA or UC Berkeley. Inspired by her experiences in robotics and community service, she is also considering a future in environmental engineering.
Her long-term goal is to work at the forefront of technology with an environmental conservation organization, developing solutions to global challenges such as climate change.
“Amara’s achievement is a testament to what can happen when a student embraces challenges, pursues her passions, and remains committed to learning and growth,” said Superintendent Darren Knowles. “Her success makes our entire PUSD community proud, and her vision for using engineering and technology to address global challenges is truly inspiring. We are excited to see where her talents, determination, and curiosity take her next.”
Amara’s accomplishments reflect the kind of student success Pomona Unified strives to foster: students who discover their passions, challenge themselves academically, serve their communities, and use their education to imagine what is possible for their future.
Her advice to younger PUSD students with big dreams is simple: believe in what you are capable of achieving and do not allow others to define your potential.
“They can achieve anything they put their mind to,” Amara said. “I think they should reach for the stars because they might even land on the moon.”
Pomona Unified School District congratulates Amara on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to celebrating the next chapter of her educational journey.
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Pomona Unified School District is a Pre-TK – Adult educational institution in east Los Angeles County serving the cities of Pomona and Diamond Bar with over 20,000 students.
Pomona Unified School District is a Pre-TK – Adult educational institution in east Los Angeles County serving the cities of Pomona and Diamond Bar with over 20,000 students.
“2027 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist, Amara Beatty, in class.”
Photo Credit: Hayley Chacon/Pomona Unified School District
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“2027 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist, Amara Beatty, representing the Panthers Girls Basketball.”
Photo Credit: Hayley Chacon/Pomona Unified School District
“2027 National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist, Amara Beatty, at the Diamond Ranch High School Sports Field.”
Photo Credit: Hayley Chacon/Pomona Unified School District