Virginia State Science Olympiad  http://www.virginiaso.com/

Here’s an announcement about an April 1st informational meeting on the
new Division A (Elementary School) Science Olympiad program for third
through fifth grade students. 

Dear Parent or Teacher.
 
You are invited to attend the 2009 Division A Science Olympiad
informational and training program on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at
Sangster ES from 7-9pm.  (Parents with no prior Science Olympiads
experience are welcome to arrive at 6:30 for introductory information.)

This is a new competition in Virginia.  Our goal is to engage students and
help them develop a passion for science.  No student will go home empty
handed.  We will award team trophies, student medals, and ribbons in an
effort to recognize achievement in the different events.
 
Who may participate in Science Olympiad Division A?

Students in grades 3-5.  Fifth grade students who participated in the
B division of Science Olympiad program are eligible for division A.
 
What is Science Olympiad Division A?

Science Olympiad engages students in the areas of biology, chemistry,
physics, and earth science.  Up to 12 Division A students work together
on a team.  Within a team, students pair up and represent their team in
one or more of the 15 events.

You do not need 12 students to participate.  If you have fewer students,
they can choose to participate in fewer events.

This year’s events include Mystery Engineering, A is for Anatomy,
Pasta Tower and Metric Mastery.  A full list of the events and rules manual
can be found on our website:

http://www.virginiaso.com/coachesresources.html
 
The 2009 Division A Tournament is scheduled for May 2, 2009, and will be
located in Northern Virginia. 

Is there still time to start a Division A Team?

Yes.  So far, approximately 15 Division A teams are registered, and new
teams are still in the process of forming. 

Do teams need to have a school sponsor?

While we prefer that teams be sponsored by a teacher, it is not necessary. 
PTAs or other parent groups also may sponsor a team.
 
If I can’t put together a team this year, should I attend this meeting?

Yes.  You will benefit from the opportunity to see what Science Olympiad
Division A is about and have an opportunity to see most of the events
hands on.  It will be a good jump start to get ready for next years’ competition.
 
Where/When is the Training/Informational Meeting?

The meeting will take place on April 1 from 7pm-9pm at Sangster ES in
Springfield, 7420 Reservation Drive, Springfield, VA. 

Please RSVP to scottvanbenschoten@virginiaso if you are interested in
attending.