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North Coventry Elementary Odyssey of the Mind

The OM test for North Coventry, to help select the fourth and fifth grade students that will participate in this year’s Odyssey of the Mind team, is Wednesday, October 16, 2024 from 3:30 to 5:00 pm.

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 (twice!).  North Coventry has excelled in these competitions due to the dedication and hard work of its students.  Children chosen to be team members are expected to put Odyssey above other activities, come to all possible 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 assessment which measures his or her ability to think fluently and to create and elaborate on original ideas.  The current and former instructors of the children may be interviewed to gather academic ability and work-ethic information. 

Students making the team must be available for meetings on Fridays after school and starting in January, Saturday mornings.   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 around the world in May.  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, sign them up on School Pay.  If you have any questions regarding the test or Odyssey of the Mind, please feel free to email me at pjanda@ojrsd.net.

Thank you,

Ms Patty Janda

NC Odyssey of the Mind coach