Even Mr Romney's much more modest call to cut the corporate tax rate and extend income-tax cuts dating from George Bush junior's presidency generates more dismay than enthusiasm among voters.

ECONOMIST: The presidential race

But having sports and other extracurricular activities available to students makes school a place that is more than drudgery, and perhaps generates a little more enthusiasm for math and science during the day, knowing doing well allows students the privilege of playing basketball after school.

FORBES: Will Jacksonville, Florida, kill school sports?