I think that our program would work well to partner with some of your students.

What is Odyssey of the Mind?

For more than 40 years, Odyssey of the Mind teaches students to learn creative problem-solving methods while having fun in the process. This S.T.E.M. based program generates excitement by tapping into creativity, and through encouraging imaginative paths to problem-solving, students learns skills that will provide them with the ability to solve problems — great and small — for a lifetime. The Odyssey of the Mind teaches students how to think divergently by providing open-ended problems that appeal to a wide range of interests. Students learn how to identify challenges and to think creatively to solve those problems. They are free to express their ideas and suggestions without fear of criticism. The creative problem-solving process rewards thinking “outside of the box.”

I believe that some of the your students could find coaching a team for Odyssey of the Mind valuable. Our program runs generally during the public school year with students forming teams in September and October, then working on their Long Term Problem solution and practicing Spontaneous Problems until our Tournament in mid-March. Teams placing 1st and 2nd at the State Tournament are then eligible to compete at World Finals. World Finals are held on a college campus and teams from around the world come there to compete.

Community involvement during the learning process is so important for helping students to become responsible citizens. Thanks for providing that opportunity for them.

Best,

Patty Baumann

VT OM Association Director