Paris ISD students earned international honors at the Future Problem Solving International Conference held June 10–14 in Indiana, bringing home top awards while competing against students from around the world. This year’s conference featured participants representing 11 countries, 33 U.S. states, and 259 schools, making the accomplishments of Paris ISD students even more impressive.
Among the district's highest achievements was a second-place finish in Middle Division Storytelling by Paris High School student Clara Gibbs. Gibbs demonstrated exceptional creativity, communication skills, and storytelling ability as she competed on the international stage, earning recognition among the world's top Future Problem Solving participants.
Paris ISD also celebrated an international runner-up finish in Middle Division Community Problem Solving. The team, known as Hype Hazard, consists of Anna Echols, Clara Schmidt, Emma Donnan, Kennedy Moore, and Amelia Elliott. The students earned second place for their project focused on raising awareness about the effects of energy drinks on athletes.
Through extensive research, education, and community outreach efforts, the team worked to help their peers better understand how energy drinks can impact athletic performance, focus, and long-term health. Their project demonstrated the power of student-led problem solving and showcased how young people can make a meaningful difference in their communities.
The students' success reflects months of preparation, research, and collaboration under the guidance of Future Problem Solving coach Eva Dickey, whose dedication has helped Paris ISD students consistently excel at the state, national, and international levels.
"We are incredibly proud of these students and the way they represented Paris ISD on the international stage," said Superintendent Althea Dixon. "Their creativity, leadership, and commitment to solving real-world problems are exactly the skills that will help them succeed in the future. These accomplishments are a reflection of their hard work and the outstanding support they receive from their coaches and families."
Future Problem Solving is an international academic program that challenges students to develop solutions to complex real-world issues through critical thinking, collaboration, research, and innovation.
The international success of Clara Gibbs and the Hype Hazard team continues a proud tradition of excellence for Paris ISD's Future Problem Solving program and highlights the district's commitment to developing future leaders, innovators, and problem solvers.