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Odyssey heads to World finals

Both the Division 1 and Division 3 teams display their medals and trophies after placing second and qualifying to go to the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals competition at Iowa State University in late May. Photo/Andy Pearce

Both the Division 1 and Division 3 teams display their medals and trophies after placing second and qualifying to go to the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals competition at Iowa State University in late May. Photo/Andy Pearce

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. - Grand Canyon School Odyssey of the Mind (OM) Division 1 and 3 teams are on to World Finals in Iowa after finishing second at state finals April 5.

"Our school has gone to Worlds many times which says a lot for a small, rural school that does OM as an after school activity rather than part of the school day," OM volunteer Andy Pearce said. "Our school did not send a team last year or the year before."

Grand Canyon will be among 800 teams from 25 different countries at the competition.

"It's a unique chance to interact with international students," Pearce said. "We always sign up for an international 'Buddy Team' to see the amazing creativity of kids from around the world. It's a great atmosphere and is a fantastic learning experience for the kids. Plus, they will have a lot of fun."

To get to the finals in late May, teams are looking for financial support to help them cover travel and other expenses. They need to raise about $10,000 in a month. Those interested in supporting the teams can donate through Grand Canyon School's tax credit program. They will get their donated money back in full when they submit their state tax returns for year 2014. Forms can be picked up at the school office or online at www.grandcanyonschool.org and then look for tax credit under the drop down for Parent information and check "Odyssey of the Mind" on the school's tax credit form. There is also information on the school's website about how school state tax credit works.

OM is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college.


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