SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE
Mar 8, 2008 Editorial
A high-five for high school math, science
Indiana does a good job of honoring the achievements of its young women and men -- both their athletic and their academic achievements.
It's true that fans might get more fired up over a three-point shot from center court or a perfect pass to the end zone than they do a face-off in the Academic Super Bowl. Still, there is recognition in the Hoosier state for all types of achievement.
It is fitting that Gov. Mitch Daniels picked March, a month of sports madness, to announce establishment of the Hoosier High School Math and Science Awards. From this year hence, just as some worthy young Indiana athletes will be named Miss Basketball and Mr. Basketball, two Hoosier high school scholars will claim the titles of Mr. or Miss Math and Mr. or Miss Science.
Whoever the winners are, they will know that they were measured against
every other high-achieving math or science student in Indiana and found
to be deserving.All Indiana high school students are eligible to apply
for the award. School teachers or administrators may nominate students,
also. The deadline for turning in applications is April 4. Applications
are available online from https://secure.in.gov/apps
Recognition of performance is reason enough to honor academic superstars. But there is method to this bit of March math and science madness. It is in Indiana's long-term economic interests for young people to develop strong, competitive math and science skills. Encouragement ought to come from every quarter, including the state administration.
This is a good shot -- as good as a three-pointer from center court.
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