“A Sterling Scholar is a high school senior who is publicly recognized and awarded for the pursuit of excellence in scholarship, leadership and citizenship in the State of Utah. A potential Sterling Scholar presents an all-encompassing portfolio on their work in a specific category and is interviewed by judges in the category’s field at various times. Sterling Scholars are awarded at the high school, semi-final and finals levels. At the awards ceremony, finalists in 14 categories are announced and then an overall Sterling Scholar winner is also announced.
The Deseret News and KSL Broadcast Group developed the program especially to focus attention on outstanding seniors in order to recognize them publicly as well as award cash scholarships and tuition waivers from participating institutions. The Sterling Scholar Awards Program seeks to commend and encourage excellence among all nominees. All nominees are judged equally on the basis of scholastic achievement without regard to religion, sex, political preference or national origin.”
-Sterling Scholar Awards Website
At Orem High, we hold Sterling Scholar Interviews in late October or early November. The interview takes places before a panel of dance experts; it consists of an application, interview, and a movement portion that includes improvisation and a self-choreographed solo.