They are two brothers that approach their academics completely different – one works extremely diligently at his studies and the other takes a more relaxed approach to his achievement. But both of the Taylor boys from Eagle River are super achievers academically.

Hayden Taylor, a senior at Eagle River High School, was just announced as a National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalist. Hayden is one of 16,000 high school seniors selected nationwide fall 2016 based on PSAT testing scores taken in their junior year spring 2016. He scored a 215. In Alaska, students must score a 212 to qualify. He has a 3.1 grade point average, but that doesn’t keep him from performing well on tests. He takes advanced placement courses at ERHS and was recently recognized by the National Math and Science Initiative as an AP Scholar for his high test scores earning several top score “five” marks on benchmark testing. His essay for the NMS contest described how he built his own computer without any specialized training. Hayden is a four-year member of the ERHS Robotics Team. He will find out in Feb. 2017 if he becomes an NMS finalist. Hayden plans to study computer science and computer engineering in college.

Hudson Taylor, a sophomore, is following in his older brother’s footsteps with a 4.08 grade point average and recognition as a sophomore, based on his freshman testing, for the NMSI, for earning a “five” on benchmark AP Scholar testing in AP biology. This is a highly unusual achievement. He is a member of the ERHS bowling team and the Anchorage Youth Orchestra. Hudson plays the trumpet.

The ECHO News wishes to congratulate Hayden Taylor and Hudson Taylor for their academic achievements.