Sierra Lutheran nets National Merit Scholarship semi-finalist

Patrick Maynard, Sierra Lutheran High School’s head of school, recognizes student Hayden Steyn for qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship program Wednesday during the campus’ weekly chapel service.Photo by Jessica Garcia.

On Wednesday, Sierra Lutheran High School’s chapel concluded by honoring National Merit Scholarship semi-finalist Hayden Steyn.Steyn is the first semi-finalist in the school’s history, Head of School Patrick Maynard said in introducing the senior from Carson City as his parents and grandmother looked on.He is the only student between Carson and Douglas to be nominated for the prize.“Hayden shame on you for working so hard,” Maynard said. “We all know Hayden is smart. Many of you are crazy smart kids. Hayden’s secret he is dedicated to the process. How many of you have seen him slack off and not try his hardest?”The question was rhetorical, but Maynard said some of his best friends might raise their hands.As a semi-finalist, Steyn can continue to compete for one of 7,250 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million offered next spring.“To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition,” according to the National Merit Scholarship Corp. “About 95 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship.”Steyn is the son of retired Navy Cmdr. Chris and Carson City optometrist Lori Steyn, a Douglas High School and University of Nevada, Reno, graduate. Grandmother Mary also attended the ceremony.“Hayden didn’t do it by himself,” Maynard said. “He had teachers, he had friends, classmates, and great parents at home, which is huge in this whole process. This is not just a Hayden award. It’s something that recognizes the hard work that’s going on at this campus. As Hayden is recognized today, you all are gifted. Don’t forget that. Keep pushing when God tells you to push. Take moments to celebrate the things. This whole campus is doing amazing things.”Sierra Lutheran High School is located in the Indian Hills neighborhood of Sunridge in northern Douglas County.The school is celebrating 20 years after it opened in 2002 in the old Bently Nevada building in Minden. In 2010, it moved into its current location near Sunridge Station 12 and Hilltop Community Church.At 125 students and 18 faculty and staff members, it is the largest private high school in Douglas County.For information, visit www.slhs.com.