What is DI:

Destination Imagination (DI) is a non-profit, volunteer-led, cause-driven organization. Our purpose is to inspire and equip students to become the next generation of innovators and leaders. Annually, we offer seven new standards-based Challenges in STEM, Improv, Visual Arts, Service Learning, and Early Learning. Each Challenge is open-ended and enables student teams to learn and experience the creative process from imagination to innovation. Academic tournaments take place around the world where teams have the opportunity to present their solutions to trained appraisers. Students have fun and gain confidence in their ability to solve any challenge. In working to solve our Challenges, teams learn 21^st century skills (creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, citizenship and courage) to build on their unique strengths.
 

A Simple Breakdown of the Program:

Up to 7 members in a single grade can be on a competitive team. Competitive teams are considered to be in 3-5th grade at Hemmeter. Each team needs an adult Team Manager, usually a parent or two will manage a team at Hemmeter. Team Managers help students stay on track but do not directly help the team develop its solution to the DI Challenge. 

Teams begin to meet in the fall and work toward their solution, usually meeting for a little as on hour a week, until the Regional Tournament in March each year.

DI teaches the creative process by allowing teams to solve Challenges together as a team. A big part of our program is the Interference policy: in short, kids have to imagine, create and develop solutions on their own. Parents, Team Managers, family and friends can’t suggest ideas or force teams in certain directions. Outsiders can only facilitate the acquisition of skills and knowledge.