February 18, 1999
(Education)

Minister announces winners in Science and Technology Essay Competition

David Carroll of Holy Spirit High School in Manuels and Philip Roberts of Holy Heart of Mary High School in St. John's are the winners of a science and technology essay competition sponsored by the Department of Education in partnership with Operation Online, STEM~Net and the School Achievement Indicators Program (SAIP).

Participants were required to answer the following questions "Why is it important for Canadians to know how well students are doing in science?"; "Why is science not only fun but also important for a career in the international job market?"

David Carroll winner in the 13-14 year old category noted in his winning essay that: "Science is the present and future of today's world. It is all around us in the way we move, what we do and what we use. Even the things we take for granted are in some way part of science. This is why we need to learn about the world of science."

Philip Roberts, winner of the 15-17 year old category noted that: "a great thing about science is that there is an endless list of careers in scientific and science related areas in the international job market."

Students were judged on their writing style, balance-opinion versus information, recognition of science and technology as an integral part of life, originality among several other categories. Over 150 entries were received from throughout the province.

The winners will receive $100 or $100 worth of software. As well, the school will receive a software package valued at $100.

The winning essay along with the runners up, will be published in the next edition of the National SchoolNet, a publication of STEM~Net.

"I congratulate David Carroll and Philip Roberts on their insightful and well written essays and their recognition of the importance of science and technology for the future prosperity of the people of this province and country," said Judy Foote, Minister of Education.

Media contact: Nancy Healey, (709) 729-0048.

1999 02 18                                             4:20 p.m.