PALM COAST -- A team of Flagler Palm Coast High students are world-champion problem solvers.

The students' work in creating Project DISK earned them the top international award at the Problem Solvers Conference in Louisville, Ky., on June 3-6.

In their project, the students developed kits used to record kindergartners' portraits and personal data, which authorities can use to search for a missing child.

About 2,000 students from the United States, Russia, Australia and New Zealand competed in the contest. Most of the American students

belonged to gifted programs from schools across the United States.

Judges in the competition were impressed with Project DISK's public service and longevity, said Bill Delbrugge, Flagler Palm Coast High School's principal.

"This is something that can continue on forever," Delbrugge said.

The FPC students became state champions in April with the project, then went on to the international competition. The Project DISK team members include Taylor Douglas, Katie Douthwaite, Jordan Garrison, Kristen Hadeed, Lorn Hillaker, Alec Manfre, David Poliner, Matt Poliner, Josh Scaife and Kristy Schoenfeldt.

In April, the group also received an award as the 2003 United Way/Bright House Network Outstanding Volunteer of the Year.

scott.wyland@news-jrnl.com