Available to Grades K-8

Odyssey of the Mind (OOTM) is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. The students apply their creativity to solve problems that range from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. Each team will work in a group of 5-7 students to selected a problem, brain storm & develop solutions and implement their ideas. In March, there is a Regional Competition for the students to showcase their talents.

• Allows kids to use their imaginations to interpret and solve complex problems in a FUN way.
• Promotes interest in STEAM
• Helps develop divergent, independent thinking abilities
• Helps develop real life communication, teamwork and brainstorming skills
• Rewards creativity and calculated risk taking

When are meetings held?
Volunteer parents (VIRTUS) set weekly meetings to prepare for competition.  Middle school teams may begin in the fall, younger teams have option to begin in December or January.  **This is a parent volunteer run program.  Parents must be available to help coach (or judge) in order for a team to registered.  One/two parents coach one team.

Is there a registration fee?
Usually under $25, but dependent on number of participants

Is there a competition?
Regional Competition  TBD
State Competition: TBD

How do I register?
Send an email to Chris Traci at : OOTM@smsva.org

**Teams from previous years, with confirmed coaches and parent volunteers, that choose to remain this season, having 5 or more member, are closed to new registrants.

 

To learn more: https://www.odysseyofthemind.com/whatis.php

OR http://www.vaodyssey.org OR www.odysseyofthe mind.com