A tradition of science

ÁA milestone was reached during this week's Southeast Missouri Regional Science Fair at the Show Me Center. The fair marked 50 years of providing opportunities for students to share their scientific interests and prowess.

The fair was started in 1956 by Southeast Missouri State University and the Southeast Missourian, which has continued to be a fair sponsor over the past half-century. The fair has a tradition of excellence that rewards students who showcase their knowledge and understanding of the scientific method of problem-solving: hypothesis, research and conclusion.

Many science fair winners over the years have gone on to excellence in the international science fair. And many students have acknowledged how much the fair has meant to them by providing recognition for their academic excellence in the field of science.

This year, there were more than 300 participants in the science fair from throughout the Southeast Missouri region.

Hats off to the students for their outstanding exhibits, to their teachers for guiding and encouraging them and to their parents and classmates for their support. The next 50 years promise to be just as rewarding for young scientists in the making.