President Obama presented a set of initiatives today to help boost the science and math scores of American students. He announced that the White House would begin holding an annual science fair starting next year. 

“If you win the NCAA championships, you come to the White House. Well, if you’re a young person and you’ve produced the best experiment or design, the best hardware or software, you ought to be recognized for that achievement too,” Mr. Obama said. “Scientists and engineers ought to stand side by side with athletes and entertainers as role models, and here at the White House, we’re going to lead by example.”

He added, “We’re going to show young people how cool science can be.”

Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, was with Obama, along with students and dozens of scientists and other administration officials. After speaking for about 15 minutes, Obama inspected the “Cougar Cannon,” a device made by two students that is intended to scoop up and toss moon rocks.

(via The New York Times)

Previously:

• Youth Radio Science Desk Stories
• Brains and Beakers: Inventors and Explosions! [Updated!]
• Young, Innovative, and Green