Whitefish Middle School coding class chosen as state finalists

Whitefish Middle School has been named a state finalist in the 13th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition, receiving a $2,500 prize package.

Gary Carmichael, Whitefish Middle School computer coding teacher, had his lesson plan selected as a state finalist along with three other schools. Whitefish is the only middle school selected while the other finalists are from high schools in Missoula, Great Falls and Helena.

Solve for Tomorrow is a national competition that challenges U.S. public school students in grades six through 12 to explore the role science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) can play in solving problems. The competition engages students in active, hands-on learning that can be applied to real-world problems – making STEM more tangible and showcasing its value beyond the classroom.

If selected as a state winner the middle school receives $20,000 in technology and supplies, as well as a video kit to help document their project in action. Carmichael’s lesson focus is on research and having students use their coding skills to develop an idea into a finished project.

Regardless of the results of the competition, Carmichael is excited about the opportunities the new technology will bring to his students.

“We have some great, creative kids and it’s fun to help them reach their potential,” he said. “This Samsung award will certainly assist us in getting there. I'm excited to work with my brand new classes this semester on this project."