Ross Dare has been selected among 330 sophomores statewide to participate in the Missouri Scholars Academy this summer, the first Poplar Bluff High School student in several years to achieve this prestigious honor, according to the Counseling Department.

 

Selection to the three-week residential program held at the University of Missouri campus in Columbia is based on PSAT scores, grade point average, an IQ test, student essays and letters of recommendation.

 

“Missouri Scholars Academy will give Ross new opportunities to challenge himself intellectually and new venues for his curiosity to flourish,” wrote Joshua Allen, Ross’ choir teacher. “He is, simply stated, the type of student for whom MSA was created.”

 

During the academy which begins Sunday, June 10, Ross will select a major, a minor, as well as a social class tailored toward the academically gifted. The curriculum is designed for scholars to deepen their understanding about their unique abilities, while engaging in critical-thinking and problem-solving activities.

 

Science Department chairwoman Gail Karlish said Ross is only the second sophomore in her 38-year tenure that she has given special permission to enroll in physics, a junior level course. Ross earned an A during the first semester. Karlish has also served as the Academic Team coach for over 25 years, working closely with many of the school’s brightest students, she said. Ross is the team captain.

 

“This year, cross country was another activity that Ross added to his already impressive plate,” Karlish wrote in her letter. “He did this because, in his words: ‘I’m not a very sports guy. I wasn’t very good this year, but I plan to run again next year because it was fun, and I want to get better.’”

 

That enthusiastic attitude combined with his top ranking in his class is why guidance counselor Susan Brown felt compelled to nominate Ross for MSA, she said.

Pictured: Ross Dare, pictured with counselor Susan Brown, has been accepted to the Missouri Scholars Academy from June 10-30 at Mizzou.

Photo and article submitted by Tim Krakowiak, Communications/Marketing Director, Poplar Bluff R-I School District