Remind them that engineering is the repeated process of solving problems. If they have never heard of the engineering design process, here is a quick walkthrough from my engineering notebook!
I can’t help myself…
As far as technical solutions, consider the angle the flywheel is firing at. Could a higher angle have more success?
Also, if possible, add another motor and crank that speed up to 1:25. This is a common ratio for flywheels and it might give you that speed boost you need.