CITIZEN STAFF REPORT

LOUISVILLE — Eden Elementary made school history over the weekend. Its Junior Division Future Problem Solving Team placed third at the state finals, becoming the first elementary school in Martin County to advance to the FPS International Conference world finals.

Team members Parker Stafford, Peyton Crum, Keilin Whitten and Paige Stafford earned the top-three finish in Louisville, securing Eden a berth in the international competition June 10-14 at Indiana University Bloomington.

Coach Lora Hale said the achievement is a milestone for both the school and the county.

“To see our little school from Eastern Kentucky earn the amazing opportunity to advance to the world finals is something so special,” Hale said while announcing the results. “These students will now get the chance to meet peers from around the world, learn about different cultures, and continue using the creative problem solving process in such a meaningful way.”

The FPS International Conference draws more than 2,000 student competitors and supporters from around the world each year, bringing together top-performing teams for the program’s highest level of competition. This year’s 2026 world finals topic is forestry, challenging students to examine how to protect vital forests while sustaining forestry for future building, medicine and jobs.

Hale expressed her pride in what the team has accomplished.

“We couldn’t be more proud of each and every one of them,” she said. “Congrats to these sweet babies. Worlds, here come the Wildcats.”