Last weekend, South Colonie students showcased their creativity and problem-solving skills at the Odyssey of the Mind competition, held at Shenendehowa High School. This year, three teams from our district including two teams from Veeder Elementary, and one from Forest Park Elementary were entered. Participating students were encouraged to engage in out-of-the-box problem solving; demonstrating teamwork, ingenuity, and perseverance throughout the competition.  

South Colonie students delivered outstanding performances, with Sarah Pendergast’s Veeder team earning second place in their division, and Kristen Gresis’ Veeder team securing third place overall. “The students put in an incredible amount of effort leading up to the competition, and it truly showed in their performances,” said Richard Thompson, Veeder third-grade teacher and Odyssey of the Mind District Coordinator. “We are so proud of their hard work, creativity, and dedication.”

Elizabeth Breslin’s team from Forest Park also impressed the judges with their enthusiastic performance, this being the first year that a Forest Park team has participated in an Odyssey of the Mind Competition. Breslin had been inspired by her colleagues’ endorsement for the program, deciding to form her team after a parent had mirrored her interest in bringing Odyssey of the Mind to Forest Park. 

“I am so proud of the Forest Park team,” Breslin states. “The students showed amazing creativity, teamwork, and commitment over the past several months, and performed impressively during their competition. The team's families also deserve a big thank you for everything they did to get their kids to practice, help source materials, and encourage creative thinking at home.” Congratulations to all the participants for their outstanding performances!