Two DeKalb students were picked from more than 15,000 finalists to receive $2,500 National Merit Scholarships. Winners are selected from each state based on their accomplishments, skills and potential for college success. A committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors made the selections. The winners are Charles S. Pennell and John K. Ewing of Lakeside High.

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Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez