The STEM jumpstart club at Waynesville Middle school has been busy over the past month working on problem-solving strategies, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership all while working to solve the Rubik’s Cube. Fifty-two seventh graders were given instructions on how to solve “the cube” but following those instructions was more difficult than first thought by the group. While working to build strategy and critical thinking skills, students were also required to work with a partner. Frustration soon set in for the group and that is when a lesson on perseverance was taught. After all students within the club had solved the cube with a partner, the challenge was given that there would be a relay race, each member of the six-man team would be responsible for completing one stage of solving the cube. The students rallied together and successfully worked as teams to solve the puzzle. The final phase of the Rubik’s Cube Challenge was based on individual skill in solving the cube in the least amount of time. Students first competed within the club. The top three finalists then competed in front of the entire student body to find out who would be crowned winner of the Cube Challenge. Carlos Vera-Soria came in first with the time of 1 minute 15 seconds. Second place was awarded to Adam Ball with a time of 1 minute 40 seconds. Minhvu Nguyen came in third with a time of 1 minute 46 seconds. All students learned more than simply solving the cube while completing the challenge. Teamwork in solving and constructing mosaics, communication skills needed to be successful leaders, and the will to keep trying even when success seems impossible are all life skills that will stay with these students as they grow into critical thinking, problem solving adults. Mrs. Tiller, Mrs. Bates, and Mrs. McCoy are proud of all who participated, persevered, and conquered “the Cube”.