BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

After falling just short of the top prize last year, Eden Elementary’s Future Problem Solving team returned to the state stage with a renewed sense of purpose—and this time, they finished what they started.

The Wildcats claimed the 2025 Kentucky state championship in Future Problem Solving.

Their win marked a historic title for the school and the triumph of persistence and teamwork.

According to Eden faculty, “This team simply does the work, supports one another, and finds innovative solutions where others might see roadblocks.”

Composed of students Paige Stafford, Parker Stafford, Beckam Spaulding and Skylin Fitch, the team worked diligently throughout the academic year, honing their analytical skills and collaborative strategies. Their journey brought them to compete in a 33-team field at the state level.

Rounding out the top 10, W.B. Muncy Elementary finished second, followed by Louisa East, Adair County, Southwest Calloway, Rich Pond, Prichard, Robert B. Turn, River Ridge and Harlan County.

Students learned of their victory when Dr. Michelle Harless, Martin County High School principal, announced it during the “Beauty & the Beast” production April 11 at MCHS.