On the recordMay 14, 2013
I wish to associate myself with the comments of the senior senator from Maine. I too am proud to congratulate the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, MSSM, for its 13th-place showing in this year's U.S. News and World Report on high school rankings. In addition, U.S. News ranked MSSM first in New England and third in the United States among magnet schools. This impressive achievement is a testament to the exceptional caliber of the school's students, faculty, and staff. Founded by the Maine State Legislature in 1995, MSSM is a residential magnet school that specializes in science and mathematics education. It is the only school of its kind in New England. MSSM serves a diverse student body made up of young people from across the State of Maine and around the world. Graduates of MSSM are prepared for rigorous postsecondary programs and have gone on to notable success in fields as diverse as academia, engineering, public service, and the military. It bears mentioning that when the school was proposed during my first year as governor, I was opposed to funding it for budgetary reasons. During a time of fiscal restraint, I was uncertain of the wisdom in devoting funds to a new school. Boy, was I wrong--MSSM has become a real gem, and I have never been so glad to have been wrong. The U.S. News ranking reflects the school's ongoing commitment to excellence.…





