A $20 million prize has been announced for the top science student in Montana to help fund a science fair and mentoring program.
The Missoulan Schools and Community Science Fair will take place in the coming weeks in Missoulae and Helena.
The event will include two science fairs.
The first one will focus on science and technology with an emphasis on high school science and math.
The second one will be a showcase of Montana’s science-oriented businesses and programs.
“Missoula is a small town and we’re trying to make it an exciting place to live and work,” Missoulas superintendent of schools, Sharon White, said in a news release.
The state also announced a scholarship program for high school students interested in working in Montana businesses.
The $20 scholarship will be awarded to one student who is a first-time student in Missourian schools.
The winner will receive $10,000 in cash and $5,000 toward the cost of their first year of college.
The school district has also announced that the Missoulans annual science fair will feature exhibits and activities that will encourage students to think critically about the scientific process.
“This is a big deal for our students and we hope that this new award will give them a great learning opportunity,” White said.
“As we look forward to the 2018 science fair, we’re looking forward to having the Missourians high school class participate in our programs.
We’re thrilled to be able to host this event in our hometown.”