A Science Olympiad team can be a valuable social group for students interested in science and engineering and a source of pride for the team’s associated school. The program rewards and recognizes students for excellent learning, thinking, invention, and teamwork: exactly the same skills most will need when they enter the workforce. Participation also builds lasting memories and friendships.
Organizing a Science Olympiad team, or helping out as an assistant coach or parent volunteer, can be a rewarding experience.
To start a Science Olympiad team, you’ll need to find:
- 10-15 students from a single school or homeschool association who are interested in being a team. Learn more on the national site.
- A coach who can represent and organize the team for tournaments. This is usually a teacher, but could also be a parent or community member. They’ll need to register the team and decide who is doing which events. If the coach isn’t a staff member of the school, you’ll also need to find a school liaison — someone who can serve to communicate between the team and the students’ school. They also can secure space at the school for the team to participate in online Science Olympiad opportunities.
- Parents and/or community members that can help out! Science Olympiad team members will need help deciding on their events and preparing for them. While all constructed devices, research, and notes must be student (not adult) work, adults can provide valuable organization and advice!