Destination ImagiNation (DI) is the world's largest creative problem solving program for kindergarten through college-aged learners, going strong in 50 states and over 40 countries. Teams of up to 7 members solve one of six different Challenges, which they perform in front of appraisers at tournaments. DI participants develop life skills while solving challenges through their unique hands-on experiences in the sciences, technology, mechanics, engineering, theater, improvisation, goal setting, time and budget management, team building, and leadership. Our ultimate goal is to teach participants that through their creativity, teamwork, and perseverance, they can DIvelop creative solutions to complex problems completely on their own! For more information on all DI's programs, see the DI, Inc. website at www.idodi.org.
Who can join? Anyone! Your school, PTA, gifted program, Community Ed or after school program, home school group, YMCA or YWCA, Scouting programs, 4H, community organization, your family - anyone up for a challenge and fun!
Each year, over 400 Maryland creative problem solving teams compete throughout the state. Many teams begin working in September, but others begin the process later in the year. After weeks and months of preparation, the teams begin competition at the regional level during the months of February and March. There are eight Maryland Destination ImagiNation regions. The winning teams advance to the State Tournament in April. The first and second place winners advance to Global Finals in late May at the University of Tennessee.
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The 2009-2010 DI season is drawing to a close, with 34 Maryland teams preparing for Globals. It's time to start thinking about forming your team for the 2010-2011 DI season! Check out our FAQs in the Resource section for information to help get your school involved. Then sometime this summer go to www.idodi.org and click on "Start A Team" to purchase your team number so you can access all the great DI program materials when they are released on September 1st. For additional info on starting a team, contact your Regional Director (see our Regional pages) or contact Affiliate Director, Sally Gold.
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