Oxy Hosts 26th Science Olympiad

was among 131 public and private schools from across Los Angeles County to participate yet again in the 26th annual Science Olympiad held Saturday at .

LAUSD schools aren’t particularly known for participating in the daylong science track meet, which consisted of about 60 events in three divisions for elementary, middle and high school students. Some 2,000 students—grouped into teams of 15 members each—took part in the annual competition, which tested not just their knowledge of science but their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in everything from astronomy to zoology.

"This is much more than a science quiz,” Gary Widdison, the tournament’s co-director, said in a news statement. “This is a chance to prepare and use what you know in a new setting. Collaboration, creativity, critical thinking and communication are emphasized. The best students will think on their feet."

Winning teams from each of the three division will compete in a state tournament on April 14 at Canyon High School in Anaheim. The winners in the state competition will then participate in the 28th annual Science Olympiad National Tournament at the University of Central Florida on May 18-19.

The results of the Science Olympiad are still being finalized and updates can be viewed by clicking this link. Preliminary results for each division can be viewed in the three attached PDF files.

Click this link to read our story about Eagle Rock Elementary School and Gifted Magnet’s participation in the 2011 Science Olympiad.