GHS seniors Kara Ellsmore and Samuella Spurr were named semi-finalists in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, a program which recognizes the most hardworking and talented high school seniors in areas such as the arts and technical education.

Ellsmore and Spurr were named semi-finalists at the beginning of May, along with just a few others from the state of Maine. Phyllis Worthley, GHS guidance counselor, believes they were selected due to their uniqueness and creativity, and their tendency to be “consistently strong” in all areas academically.

Ellsmore is planning to attend the University of Southern Maine next year. She played volleyball at GHS for four years and tennis for three. Additionally, she has been president of the Girl Up club for three years and was a member of the National Honor Society for two years.

Spurr is attending Simmons College next year. At GHS, she was a member of the National Honor Society, and interned with the Gorham Times. Outside of school, she is involved in Blunt Youth Radio. She volunteers at The Portland Housing Authority’s Study Center and Planned Parenthood as well.