Odyssey Of The Mind: KO Students In International Competition

DORMONT, PA — Four Keystone Oaks School District teams composed of 28 students will participate in the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals, an international competition celebrating creativity, problem solving and teamwork.

The finals will be held next month at Michigan State University and include teams from nations such as Germany, Poland, Canada and others.

“This is an incredible honor for our students,” said Jessica Dobson, Keystone Oaks Odyssey of the Mind coordinator. “They’ve worked so hard to solve complex problems using creativity and teamwork. They’ve built vehicles, created their own props and costumes, written and performed original scripts, and developed clever, imaginative solutions. Now, they get to represent not just our district, but our entire region on the world stage.”

Odyssey of the Mind is an international program that fosters creative problem-solving through engineering, art, and performance. Keystone Oaks’ teams advanced by competing in regional and state tournaments, facing off against over 300 teams statewide.

Dobson said the district is now fundraising to cover $25,000 in travel, lodging, and competition expenses to ensure every student has the chance to go. The district is encouraging community members and local businesses to support by the effort making a tax-deductible donation here or contribute in-kind donations such as gift cards, items and services for raffles and events.

“Keystone Oaks may be a small district, but these kids are doing extraordinary things,” Dobson. said. “This trip is about more than competing — it’s about showing that creativity, hard work, and community support can take you anywhere.”