The seniors once competed in their math class at Taylor Middle School. But that's hardly unique.
Many local students participate in academic competitions.
Both students probably will rank first among their graduating classes. But there's a long list of past county valedictorians. Liberty High School senior Sarah Bundick and Fauquier High School senior Peter Scheffel this year became the second and third county students to ever win National Merit Scholarships. The exam measures students' reading, math, problem-solving and writing skills. A selection committee evaluates each finalist's academic record, including the difficulty of course work, subjects studied, test scores, contributions and leadership in community activities.