The Cox Elementary School Destination Imagination (DI) team topped off the end of the 2015-2016 school year by earning a trip to the Global DI competition in Knoxville, Tennessee, where the students competed against more than 1,400 teams from 45 states, seven Canadian provinces, and 13 countries.
The team earned the trip to Globals by placing first in their category at the regional tournament and second at the state tournament. Competing in the fine arts category “Get a Clue,” the team presented a mystery story set in the 1980s, complete with three suspect characters, a TechniClue device essential in solving the mystery, and three possible versions of the story ending.
The team members researched the time period, built their own props and backdrops, made their own costumes, and wrote their own stories.
“What makes Destination Imagination unique is that it really focuses on the kids being the driving factor,” said Heike Murphy, who co-manages the team with Kim Griffith.
For some of the students, the trip to Globals was their first time on an airplane. They stayed in the dorms on campus at The University of Tennessee, giving them an early taste of college life. For all of the team members, Heike said, it was an experience of a lifetime the kids will not forget.
Sheri Hawthorn, Cox Elementary School principal, said it is clear that Leander ISD fosters and supports curiosity and creativity.
“As a school administrator, I felt honored and proud of our district and the opportunities we provide to our students,” Hawthorn said.
This feature story was included in the LISD School Spotlight of Cox Elementary School. These School Spotlights will be used to showcase student life and the vibrant culture at every school in Leander ISD – through stories, photos and videos. Check it out!
