Arts & Enrichment
*Arts and Enrichment
Odyssey of the Mind Information
The Odyssey of the Mind program teaches students how to think divergently by providing open-ended problems in a team setting.
Embedded in the process are 21st Century Skills such as Creativity, Innovation and Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Global Awareness, Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills, Self-Direction and Adaptability.
The Region 7 Odyssey of the Mind service instructs school coaches about the Odyssey of the Mind program, trains volunteers to judge the competition and produces the annual regional tournament. Membership in the state and national organizations is required for participation in this service. Regional first-place champions are eligible for the state competition; state champions are eligible for the world competition. Get CoSer and pricing details for this service.
- Note to parents: BOCES can release student information to media and others unless we hear from you; read our policy
2024-2025 Problem Synopses
Planning for Odyssey 2024-2025 is underway! After a couple of years of upheaval, we are back for a fully in- person tournament. We do not anticipate any changes to this plan, but as always, we will monitor the situation and follow any recommended guidance and/or mandates. Continue to check back for updates!
The 2024-2025 Long-Term Problems are Ready to be Solved!
- Find the new problems in the new Members Area: login here
- Find the Updated Program Guide here
- Any Questions? Email Us!
KEY DATES
Region 7 Judges Training- January 25 at Capital Region BOCES
Region 7 Tournament Date - March 1, 2025 at Shenendehowa School District
State Tournament - 2025 date TBD - NYS Fairgrounds
Odyssey World Finals - 2025 date TBD - Iowa State University
Quick Links:
Resources
- Odyssey of the Mind Newsletter -November
- Odyssey of the Mind Newsletter -September
- National Odyssey of the Mind Website
- New York State Odyssey of the Mind Website
- New York State Odyssey of the Mind, Step-by-Step Registration
- Odyssey Resources — including tips for coaches and an Odyssey video (updated 2017)
Testimonials
"The one constant thing is that we (kids and adults) learn from the experiences and grow as a result. That's what the Odyssey is about and that's why I put myself through it year after year." - Cathi Butryn, Paige Elementary School Coach
"I was impressed with the Cobleskill team, they're just SO GOOD...the team is so down to earth. Our team ran into them after the competition outside and the two teams started talking about mistakes each had made and telling each other it didn't matter — watching the two groups of teens who were competing against each other and didn't know one another treat each other so supportively truly impressed me — not many adults behave that well! Thanks again for everything!" - Jacquie Carbone, Schenectady High School Coach