SCIENCE FAIR, HISTORY DAY ARE SHOWCASES FOR BEST AND BRIGHTEST STUDENTS IN OUR AREA

A program such as the Southeast Missouri Regional Science Fair or the regional National History Day contest shows how local students excel. The projects and imagination of area students are impressive. These competitions underscore the fact that Southeast Missouri students are both intelligent and creative.

The Science Fair and History Day are also great ways to put an emphasis on fundamental learning. The limelight encourages students to test their skills. These competitions should also spur attention for important behind-the-scenes players: the parents and teachers who instill the drive for excellence in these students.

It also goes to show that one teacher can really make a difference in pushing students to excel in science, history or other topics. In these competitions, small schools can compete with the largest, and it's usually one committed teacher who sets the pace.