HISD School Takes Second in State

Moves on to World Finals

April 14, 2004 - HISD's Parker Elementary School “Odyssey of the Mind” team placed second in the state tournament and now joins teams from all over the globe to compete in the World Finals at the University of Maryland from May 28 to June 1.

Odyssey of the Mind is a worldwide competition designed to foster problem-solving skills and teamwork. One of the challenges this year was to build a structure that weighs less than eight ounces that can hold 40 pounds and move it 25 feet. The Parker students came up with a pool made of PVC pipe and cellophane which moves on an 18-foot-long track like a roller coaster.

In the “Balancing Act” challenge, the Parker team faced teams from 11 other schools from around the state. Team members worked hard throughout the school year building and testing various structures. In addition, they created a skit revolving around a sea world theme and designed and built props and costumes. One costume had to be made entirely of trash.

And they play instruments, too!!!