Help Send Bay Haven to Odyssey of the Mind World Finals

After a school year of hard work, Bay Haven Elementary has TWO teams that made it through regional and state competitions to qualify for Odyssey of the Mind's World Finals being held in Ames, Iowa in May! This 4-day event is far from home so involves significant costs for airfare, lodging, meals, and registration fees. We are asking for help from our community to make this trip possible - no amount is too small!! All funds will go directly to helping our students participate in this event. It is such a wonderful educational opportunity for this great group of 3rd, 4th and 5th graders, who have demonstrated collaboration, teamwork, and creativity throughout this process. They have grown so much, and attending World Finals will be a milestone they can be proud of for a lifetime!

Unfortunately we can't share with you the skits (complete with props and costumes) they have created and performed to solve their respective problems until after World Finals, but you will be amazed what these kids have accomplished with support from their incredible coach, Bay Haven teacher Ms. Barnett. We thank you in advance for any support and you can give and look forward to sharing their journey with you!

What is Odyseey of the Mind?

It is very important to note that this is a competition entirely self-driven by the students. Parents and coaches cannot aid in solving the problem! Odyssey of the Mind (OM™) teaches students how to develop and use their natural creativity to become problem-solvers. Imagine being faced with a problem that requires an original solution. It can be frightening. Now imagine not being afraid to solve that problem – that is what OM members learn. This skill and self-confidence will carry over to all areas of their lives. OM brings the classroom to life as students apply what they learn and combine it with their interests and passions to solve our unique open-ended problems. OM also emphasizes teamwork, budgeting, time management, public speaking, and so much more. This international program is designed to help students at all learning levels grow as individual learners, grow as team members, and to reach their full potential. (https://www.odysseyofthemind.com)