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North Coventry Elementary Odyssey of the Mind Tryouts

On Wednesday, October 15th, a creativity test will be given after school (3:40pm until 5:00pm) at North Coventry to help select the fourth and fifth grade students that will participate in this year’s Odyssey of the Mind team. Odyssey of the Mind is a worldwide problem-solving competition. The children of North Coventry have proven their creativity and team working skills in the past, even taking the team to the world competition level, earning third place! Children chosen to be team members are expected to put Odyssey above other activities, come to all practices, and put forth their best effort.

The test is open to all fourth and fifth grade North Coventry students. To qualify as a member of our problem-solving team, a student must complete an exam which measures his or her ability to think fluently and to create and elaborate original ideas. Results from the try-outs will be posted on the NC website, as well as announced to the school, no later than October 30. The chosen team members will meet Fridays after school and Saturday mornings at North Coventry Elementary starting in November. These practices will start with the students being familiarized with Odyssey regulations, working on creative fluency and problem-solving skills, and team building activities. As the practices progress, the students will focus on their chosen problem by writing scripts, designing and creating costumes, props, and scenery. A typical Odyssey season runs from November through April. If the team places at the regional tournament in March, they move onto the state level. If the team wins at the April state competition, they earn the right to compete against teams from around the world in May. This year’s championship will be held at Iowa State University. The financial burden of sending the students to the world finals (transportation, meals, and lodging) lies with the children’s parents/guardians.

Although Odyssey of the Mind can be a large commitment, it is a wonderful experience for the students. If you would like your child to test for this opportunity, please register them on
School Pay by October 14th. If you have any questions about Odyssey of the Mind, please visit the Odyssey of the Mind website ( www.odysseyofthemind.com ) or feel free to contact me at pjanda@ojrsd.com.

Thank you,
Miss Patty Janda
NC Odyssey of the Mind coach