Four teams from Johannesburg-Lewiston Area Schools are headed back to Odyssey of the Mind World Finals. The teams advance to OM World Finals after placing in the top two at the state tournament. Teams from around the world will be competing at Iowa State University for the World Finals competition May 20-24, 2024.
Our Division 3 Problem 4 Structure team were State Champions this year. This team had to design and build a balsa wood structure weighing less than 15 grams that could hold weight. The team’s structure held 483 lbs. Team members William Wertman, Bryton Sumampow, Kayley Kassuba, Holly Elam, Racheal Pewinski and Regan Raymond are coached by Valerie Kassuba and Sally Nowak.
Our Division I structure team also had to design and build a structure weighing under 18 grams and their structure held 688 lbs. at the State Tournament. Jackson & Kenzie Neuenfelt, Logan Maxwell, Ainsley Kassuba and Jaxson Williamson are coached by Christina Maxwell and Nikki Neuenfelt.
The Div III "Drive-in Movie” team had to build a vehicle that appeared to transfer into a movie. Team members Aubrey Neuenfelt, Emma Woosley and Ryleigh Karen and are coached by Amber Stahl.
The fourth team is a Div I team that did not place in the top two but have advanced due to receiving the coveted Rentra Fusca Creativity award. Team members Caleb Gross, Micha Holley, Scarlett and Esther Carroll are coached by Vicki Holley and Katie Gross.
Competition has three scoring elements: long-term problem, spontaneous and style.
The teams are very excited and honored to represent Johannesburg-Lewiston Area Schools as well as the State of Michigan. It will be an great experience as they will be able to meet and get to know other students from around the world!
The teams will need to raise approximately $30,000 for registration and travel expenses for their trip. Contact Kim Samkowiak at Bksamkowiak@hotmail.com if you'd be interested in helping the teams achieve their goal.