What are the top high schools for National Merit Scholars?

I am a sophomore aiming for National Merit Scholarship. Does anyone know which high schools tend to churn out the most National Merit Scholars? And do these high schools have any specific programs or classes to prepare students for the PSAT/NMSQT?

National Merit Scholar recipients often come from a wide range of high schools, so it's difficult to pinpoint a definite list of top high schools. That being said, certain schools with a rigorous academic curriculum and commitment to excellence tend to yield higher numbers of National Merit Scholars. These come from different states across the U.S., following no particular pattern. However, keep in mind that these high-performing schools often also have competitive admission processes and high academic expectations.

As for the second part of your question, many rigorous high schools do indeed offer PSAT/NMSQT preparation programs, or weave PSAT-related material into their curricula. For instance, schools may offer specific PSAT prep classes, assign PSAT-related homework in subjects like English and Math, or encourage after-school study sessions focused on PSAT materials.

Moreover, many schools provide additional support such as guidance counseling to help students strategize their preparation for the PSAT/NMSQT. Some schools also capitalize on online resources like the Bluebook™ app that allows students to preview the digital PSAT/NMSQT and take a full-length practice test.

It's important to remember that becoming a National Merit Scholar is not just about attending the right school, but also about your dedication to your studies and your strategic approach to preparation. Ultimately, the most crucial factors in earning this distinction are your own hard work and academic ability. School resources can aid in this process, but they can only augment your own intrinsic abilities and work ethic.