Region 15 LMES Student in Top 3 for 2026 National Jr. Ranger Title hosted by Jeff Corwin.

MIDDLEBURY, CT – Region 15 student Kataliena Prior is making waves on the national stage. A 3rd grade student at Long Meadow Elementary School, Kataliena Prior has been named a Top 3 finalist for the prestigious 2026 National Jr. Ranger Title.

The national program, hosted by renowned conservationist Jeff Corwin and the Official Ambassador for National Wildlife, recognizes youth who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a passion for conservation, and a deep dedication to America’s National Parks. Out of thousands of applicants across the United States, Kataliena Prior is now representing the Middlebury and Southbury communities in the final stage of the competition.

Representing the Middlebury Martial Arts Academy, Kataliena recently traveled to Scotland for the International Championship. Competing in the traditional Korean style of Tang Soo Do, she delivered a world-class performance, bringing home a Gold Medal in Forms, a Silver Medal in Sparring, and a Silver Medal in Weapons.

Kataliena trains under the expert guidance of 4th Dan Master Virginia Folger. Her international victory followed a dominant showing at the National Championship, where she secured Gold Medals in both Forms and Weapons, as well as a Silver Medal in Sparring.

“Kataliena’s dedication to her craft, whether in the dojang or out in the National Parks, is a testament to her character,” says Liely and Paul Prior as parents. 

Between her rigorous training schedule and her environmental advocacy, Kataliena remains deeply rooted in the Region 15 community.

Kataliena’s journey to the Top 3 is backed by years of local environmental stewardship and community service. Her contributions to the Region 15 area include:

• Earth Day Stewardship: Leading by example in annual neighborhood Brookside clean-ups. With nothing more than a pair of gloves and a trash bag, Kataliena takes to the streets of her neighborhood, dedicated to picking up trash and preserving the local environment.
• Arbor Day Conservation: Active participation in local tree-planting initiatives. Kataliena actively participates in Region 15 local tree-planting initiatives, dedicating her time to reforestation efforts and the preservation of our town's natural beauty.
• Community Support: A consistent volunteer for the annual "Socktober" drive, Kataliena has shown remarkable growth in her community service, raising over 150 pairs of socks in 2025 and doubling her impact in 2026 with over 300 pairs donated. supporting those in need throughout the district.

The grand prize for the National Jr. Ranger Title includes a $20,000 scholarship and a featured spread in Junior Ranger Magazine.

The community is encouraged to rally behind our local finalist. Voting is currently open and is time sensitive as the competition heads into its final selection. Members of the public can cast their votes for Kataliena Prior by visiting link below.

Where people vote:
jr-ranger.org/2026/kataliena-0929