Odyssey of the Mind is a world wide educational program that promotes creative thinking and problem solving. Students work together in teams to solve problems that range from building their own vehicles to creating a new twist to literary classics. Participants learn cooperation, the appreciation and understanding of others, and that a group is a more powerful thinking force than an individual. They develop a sense of self-respect and respect for others through preparatory activities such as brainstorming and role playing. Typically, the ultimate goal for teams is to present their problem solutions in official competitions on a regional, state and world level.  The purpose of the Odyssey of the Mind program is to give students a unique learning experience that promises to be challenging and fun. 
 
Each year Valwood sends teams to the regional competition. Students from Kindergarten though Upper School may participate. In 1999, and again in 2002, Valwood teams reached the World Finals Competition, finishing second and thirteenth in the world respectively.

For more information about Odyssey of the Mind, see the organization's website at www.odysseyofthemind.com.