While most local students were enjoying their fall break, 61 others went to school on a day off.

For Charles Henderson High School students, a Preliminary SAT exam, was given during fall break, and several came out to take the test.

“What I’m most proud of is this is fall break, and we have 61 students here,” said Principal David Helms.

The test, which is given every year to juniors who wish to take it, gives students an opportunity to practice for the college entrance exam, and it also gives an opportunity to earn a National Merit Scholarship.

“It’s the qualifying test that lets them be identified as a national merit scholar,” said Guidance Counselor Stacy Carpenter. “It also provides individual analysis on each student, and identifies their specific strengths and weaknesses.”

Last year, CHHS student Blake Basset received a National Merit Scholarship from taking this exam.