World Finals Update
World Finals will now be held virtually. There will be no in-person World Finals event at Iowa State University this year. To view the announcement from Odyssey of the Mind HQ, click here.
Odyssey of the Mind HQ has announced that all teams are eligible for the virtual World Finals. As a result, we are no longer holding any virtual judging in Pennsylvania.
We are still hoping to have an event here in PA over the summer, if circumstances allow for safe gatherings.
Please refresh this page or visit our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter page for the latest information for Pennsylvania teams.
Official Statement: State Finals Postponement
Dear Odyssey Family,
Pennsylvania State Finals is postponed until further notice. We are committed to providing an excellent Odyssey of the Mind experience for our Pennsylvania OMers at a future date when circumstances allow for safe events.
The Odyssey of the Mind parent organization, Creative Competitions, Inc., is considering changes to their requirements to qualify for World Finals. Therefore, teams should keep all of their props and materials. When we know how these changes will impact Pennsylvania teams, we will let you know.
At this time, we do not have a date or location for a statewide event. Our volunteer board of directors will continue to meet by videoconference and think outside the box to consider all options. When we are able to make a decision, we will share it here at paodyssey.com, and on our Facebook page.
We know all of our creative OMers across Pennsylvania have put in a tremendous effort to solve their problems. We are all looking forward to seeing your creativity on display and celebrating our 40th anniversary, when the time is right.
Thank you for your understanding as we all deal with this spontaneous problem. Thank you to our coaches, judges, volunteers, school officials, and board members for all of your hard work so far this season. Please, be safe, and be well.
Additional Advisories
East Central Regional Tournament has been cancelled. For updates, please visit the ECPA Facebook Page and ECPA website.
NEPA Regional Tournament has been postponed until further notice. For updates, please visit the NEPA Facebook Page and NEPA website.
Line Mountain Scholarship applications will still be accepted through the normal deadline of March 21. For more information, click here.
State Finals Tournament Fees are suspended. Teams do not need to submit payment at this time. Any previously paid fees will be refunded.
World Finals will now be held virtually. There will be no in-person World Finals event at Iowa State University. To view the announcement from Odyssey of the Mind HQ, click here.
As you may know, our program is run entirely by volunteers, many of whom are parents and past OMers who understand your concerns and the difficult position everyone is put in by this situation. We will be completely transparent and expeditious with any updates posted on our website and Facebook page, and by email to coaches and judges/volunteers. We truly appreciate your patience and kindness as our volunteers do all they can to work with the appropriate school and Pennsylvania Department of Health officials to ensure the safest Odyssey of the Mind experience.
Helpful Links
Healthcare update from Odyssey of the Mind
PA Department of Health
CDC COVID-19 information
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What is Odyssey of the Mind?
Odyssey of the Mind is an international creative problem-solving program for K-12 and college students. Odyssey of the Mind provides students the opportunity to learn to express themselves creatively, while developing life-long critical thinking STEM / STEAM skills – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
Students learn the value of brainstorming and teamwork, as they grow their self-confidence and appreciation for the ideas and strengths of others while in an encouraging team-focused atmosphere. Their unforgettable experiences as an Odyssey team build their skills to succeed in their personal lives and future careers.