All Americans should celebrate the 40th anniversary of Title IX. This law has helped to level the playing field for women and girls of this country.

However, as a nation, we must not forget that the Title IX law not only applies to women and girls participating in organized sports, but also to academic equality. It is important that we continue to strive to enhance academic achievement for women and girls in science, technology, engineering and math.

Billie Jean King and Venus Williams are dynamic leaders and advocates for women and girls in sports.

It is important that we unite and summon a person to lead the charge for the continued academic achievement of women and girls on a local and national level. There is a chasm in the classroom. We need to -- and must -- close the achievement gap.

Bill Payne

Hilton Head Island