PCA’s Future Problem Solvers program begins in Sixth Grade as students are given their first opportunity to compete with their friends on a team of four. Students learn to solve real world issues, design solution ideas using limited resources, and master each step of the FPS process. was the first competition. The students were tasked with solving an issue about food security and created solutions to solve the central issue. All 6th – 12th grade students in FPS competed this week and the results will be posted in the following weeks. FPS covers a multitude of topics ranging from AI to issues with single use plastics, both relevant in today’s society. Students compete in multiple competitions throughout the year, all to practice for the state competition where students who qualify will go to Indiana to compete against persons all over the world.
Third year FPSer Junior Aidan Petrof said, “My team has a tradition before every competition, we get glacier freeze gatorade and chocolate or glazed donuts.” Many teams bring their own snacks for the competition so everyone can stay focused.
Sixth Grader Kross Wrona said, “Even though it was my first competition our team worked well together and our underlined problem was well written. Our team also brought rolls from Texas Roadhouse and Jay’s Donuts.” Having a good team is crucial even if you haven’t had much experience competing.
Junior Anderson Neumann said, “My team brought Mountain Dew and fried mozzarella sticks for the competition, it’s a tradition we have had for years.” Anderson has competed since sixth grade and is competent in his ability to problem solve.
In the end, FPS not only equips students with problem solving skills they will need for the rest of their lives, but also teaches them to work well with others. Thanks to FPS, students build friendships, gain confidence, and experience the joys of teamwork and competition. They get to travel for competitions and improve their cognitive skills in creativity and academics. This program helps to benefit the lives of scientists and engineers by laying a foundation for a lifelong passion for inventions and problem solving.
