Andersonville Elementary’s Destination Imagination students did well at state competition April 21. They earned a spot at Globals Finals in Knoxville, Tenn., where they will compete against teams from around the world.
‘They did a wonderful job,? said parent volunteer Annie Knill.
‘When we started this it was only to give our kids a chance to see what the local competition was like,? said Deb Cumming, parent.
‘Never did we think they would go on to the state competition, much less take third there and qualify for the Global tournament. This really is a ‘fairytale team,? as one of the commentators at state called them, and we in the Clarkston school district are extremely proud.?
The Soaring Eagles team earned third place at the state competition at Central Michigan University. Andersonville teachers Jenni Gifford and Kathy McEwen were also there, volunteering as appraisers.
Andersonville’s two other DI teams, Braniacs and Eagles, will cheer on their classmates, said Angie Suarez, parent volunteer.
‘All three teams worked together ? they’re a great group of kids,? Suarez said. ‘I wish everyone could have won, but all of us celebrated the victory.?
Competing at regionals in March, Eagles and Soaring Eagles earned spots at states. Eagles earned ninth place.
Now, Soaring Eagles is preparing their Direct Flight presentation, including airplane model and elevator launcher, for Knoxville. About 8,000 participants are expected.
‘We’re practicing a lot of instant challenges,? said Brenton Villeneuve, Soaring Eagle. ‘We’re working on thinking and problem solving.?
Instant challenges, which are kept secret before competition, test students? teamwork and problem-solving skills.
The team needs help to fund the trip, which will cost about $3,000. To make a donation, contact the school at 10350 Andersonville Road in Davisburg, Principal Bruce Martin, 248-623-5200. The finals are set for May 23-26.