Grade point average is important, but should be coupled with rigorous classes and challenging yourself.

That was one message from the new Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson as he spoke to Junction City High School students during the academic letter banquet at the senior high. “Not always looking just for the GPA but what can I learn.”

Watson encouraged the students to sit in front of the class, ask questions, raise hands, and to be inquisitive. “Do something other than just academics. Great research, be involved in two to five activities, show some leadership in those. You’re going to learn a lot that you just don’t learn in the classroom.”

Three hundred and fifty-nine students with GPA’s of 3.5 or higher were recognized during the banquet.