By-Line: Don Foley, Flagler Schools
Buddy Taylor Middle School’s (BTMS) SeaPerch team, Team Swift Sharks, proves they can make waves on the world stage. Alex Mangal and James Webb, with Luke Chrzanowski serving as an alternate, represented BTMS and Flagler Schools at the 2025 International SeaPerch Challenge, held
at the University of Maryland on May 31 and June 1. Out of 181 teams from 31 states and four countries competing on three different levels, the Eagles placed an impressive 22nd overall in the middle school class, competing against the best underwater robotics students in the world.
Their standout performance included a 13th-place finish on their Technical Design Report and a 23rd-place ranking on the Mission Course, which tested the maneuverability and capability of their Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).
“This is an incredible accomplishment,” said BTMS SeaPerch Advisor Tracy Jones. “These students worked tirelessly on every aspect of their design, and it’s amazing to see their effort recognized at such a high level. They earned their spot among the top SeaPerch teams in the world.”
The competition welcomed more than 800 students, highlighting the growing interest and excellence in underwater robotics education.
SeaPerch is an international program that challenges students to design, build, and maneuver their underwater ROVs using only the tools and materials in their kit, sparking innovation and strengthening skills in engineering, problem-solving, and teamwork. The BTMS team also connected their learning to real-world applications through a community outreach project at this year’s Water Safety Day, educating the public on bathing suit visibility in different aquatic environments. With two consecutive years of teams advancing to the international level, BTMS is building a proud tradition of excellence in STEM education and student innovation.
