Odyssey of the Mind

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.

Key Dates & Info for 2024-25

How can I become a judge?

To be a judge parents must: 

  • Attend an Odyssey of the Mind Virtual Training (2-2.5 hours) on either February 1st or February 8th 

  • Be available for the LA Basin tournament

  • If students qualify, be available for the SoCal State Tournament

Note: Judges will may not see their own children compete and will not judge in the same division or judge the same problem as their children

What are the key dates for 2025?

Regional Tournaments

  • LA Basin (Regional) Tournament: February 22, 2025

  • SoCal State Tournament: March 15, 2025

World Finals 

  • May 21st - 25th, 2025 at Michigan State University in East Lansing (Tentative)

Spontaneous Day Competition

  • Spontaneous Day will be held on December 8

  • TBD if we will participate, given the fast-approaching date and the fact that we don’t have teams in place yet. While participation in Spontaneous Day is not mandatory, it offers an excellent opportunity for teams to receive feedback and enhance their solutions.

How will student teams be formed?

Team sign-ups must be completed at the national organization level ASAP (unfortunately, we did not receive additional information beyond that)

We are in a TIME CRUNCH! Ms. Cheng and Susana will do everything they can to form teams and get them signed up ASAP

How do I volunteer?

We will need parent volunteers. Unlike other schools that got started in September we are going to have to cram as much as possible so the time commitment may be heavy until regionals in February. Our top volunteer priority is recruiting and training parent judges. 

We need to have TWO judges per team for our students to participate in competitions. If you’re interested in being a judge please indicate that in the OM - Volunteer Interest Form.