2013 Science Olympiad
Mary Kaider, Grade 10
Throughout the year Florida Virtual School has many activities that enrolled students can participate in, virtually or face-to-face. That’s where Science Olympiad comes in. There are two Science Olympiad events during the school year: regionals, where any school can participate, and state, where you can participate via invite only. This year FLVS was able to participate in both events. There are many activities to participate in at Science Olympiad. With over 20 different science themed events from hands-on to question to research there's something for every scientist.
What is your favorite part about doing Science Olympiad? Kathie S: The teammates. Just the way that we are trusted and the interest that young people have in science. Mrs. Patterson: I love getting to spend time with the students on our team! It is so exciting for me as a teacher to see students want to learn new things and to be able to apply what they have learned to different situations.
What was the hardest thing about participating in Science Olympiad? Victoria O: I think the hardest thing was accepting that I wasn’t going to know all the answers, Once I realized that, I was able to have the best time of my life! Mrs. Patterson: I think Julie Young explained this better than I can. In the update to the school board she shared, ‘Most people don’t realize how unique and challenging it is to compete against students who get to see and work together on a daily basis, and yet our FLVS students still come away with top performances each year.’
What would you say to the students who are thinking about doing Science Olympiad? Kathie S: Yes, yes, yes. I don’t like science at all, but I love doing Science Olympiad.
How can FLVS teachers get involved with Science Olympiad? Mrs. Patterson: FLVS has an AMAZING staff support for Science Olympiad. In addition to coaching or providing tutoring support to students to help get ready, FLVS Foundation sponsored the entry fee to compete, teachers reached out to local bookstores to get resource books donated, and several non-science staff members volunteer to help run headquarters and verify scoring.
Would you do it again? Victoria O: Most definitely! It was probably the most thrilling and fun experience I have had in my entire life.