Argonia High School Student Named Governor's Scholar
Launch the media gallery 1 playerAt the invitation of Governor Kathleen Sebelius, Karissa R. Pankratz of Argonia High School, was selected to attend the 26th Annual Governor's Scholar Awards Program on May 3, 2009, in Topeka.
The recognition ceremony honors the top academic one percent of Kansas high school seniors. Scholars are selected from accredited public and private schools in the state.
"These high school seniors have shown dedication in their studies and a commitment to learning. They've earned this honor, and I want to congratulate all of them on this achievement," Gov. Sebelius said. "We should also recognize their families, teachers, and mentors for helping these outstanding students achieve their academic goals."
This program is coordinated for the Governor by the Confidence in Kansas Public Education Task Force. It is funded by donations from the Kansas Bankers Association and other private sector businesses in Kansas.
The Confidence in Kansas Public Education Task Force was formed 26 years ago to strengthen public confidence in education. The following organizations are members of the Task Force: American Association of University Women, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas Congress of Parents and Teachers, Kansas State Department of Education, Kansas-National Education Association, Kansas School Public Relations Association, Kansas State High School Activities Association, and United School Administrators of Kansas.
Accompanying Karissa to the awards ceremony were her parents, Orrin and Paula Pankratz, and Argonia teacher, Terry Lawrence. Newly sworn-in Governor, Mark Parkinson, was on hand to present the awards to the students.
