Libby High School students dominate stock market game competition

Libby High School students dominated the Fall 2024 Stock Market Games, placing three of the top five teams from across Montana.

650 teams from state schools competed and Libby competitors finished second, third and fourth.

The Montana Council for Economic Education (MCEE) runs the statewide competition that challenges students to build financial literacy, teamwork and investment strategy skills.

The winning teams of the Fall 2024 session demonstrated exceptional insight and strategy:

First Place: Kolton Karlsgodt and Nathanial Romkema from Dillon, coached by Jeremy Anderson.

Second Place: Connor Benson and Isaac Lamere from Libby High School, coached by Michelle Foss.

Third Place: Paul Hipuesch, Kale Hall, from Libby High School, coached by Michelle Foss.

Fourth Place: Augie Bailey, Bella Meyer and Nicole Nixon, Libby High School coached by Michelle Foss.

Fifth Place: Kellen Farrar, Keegan Losi and Kaisey Magill, from Hellgate High School in Missoula and coached by Steven Klimkiewicz.

Libby High School teacher and coach Michelle Foss was very happy with her student's performances.

"This is a pretty big deal for these kids," Foss said. "We're also appreciative of Glacier Bank for paying the entry fees of all teams in Montana."

The Stock Market Game is a dynamic educational program where student teams manage hypothetical investment portfolios, mirroring real-world stock market conditions. 

Over the course of nine weeks, participants analyze market trends, strategize investments and make simulated trades. The experience not only strengthens their understanding of financial markets but also instills valuable life skills like critical thinking and collaboration.

“The Stock Market Game provides students with a hands-on opportunity to engage with real-world economic concepts,” said Dax Schieffer, Executive Director of MCEE. “We’re thrilled to see so many Montana students gaining valuable skills that will serve them well in their future endeavors and it was impressive how coach Michelle Foss led her students to success with so many teams competing.”

The Montana Council on Economic Education is dedicated to empowering Montana students with the economic knowledge and skills they need to succeed in an increasingly complex world. Through innovative programs and resources, MCEE equips educators and students to understand economic principles and apply them in real-life situations.