Special Awards

Note: The descriptions have been alter slightly to prevent publishing solution descriptions.

Lincoln Street School, Kidz Rulz, Elementary. Spirit of DIscovery and ImagiNation.
The Appraisers noted the exceptional spirit and enthusiasm of this team, which was contagious! Outstanding teamwork was evident when during their performance, as the team maintained their momentum by working cooperatively even when a line or two was missed. Finally, they were so invested in each other that each team member knew exactly what every other member contributed and were genuinely eager to give credit appropriately.

Londonderry Middle School, Back at You, Middle Level, Renaissance award.

For overall engineering, use of technology and innovation from start to finish in all aspects of the performance.

Rye Schools, How'd tHAT Happen, Elementary Spirit of DIscovery and ImagiNation.

This young team showed unusual compassion and teamwork. They demonstrated maturity and compassion beyond their years. The whole team went on to do a confident and well-paced performance.

Chester Academy, How'd tHAT Happen, Elementary Spirit of DIscovery and ImagiNation.
This person, the "Cherry Blossom Singer",created and performed an acapella song about Japanese cherry blossoms that was an integral part of her team’s skit. Her performance in concert with the team performance was powerful, sweet, and emotional. It actually brought one appraiser to tears.

Golden Brook School, Rising Stars! (Grades K-2). DaVinci Award.
This award was presented for outstanding creativity in use of materials, especially for the age group. The presentation and teamwork showcased the team's creativity.

Rye Schools, Middle Level, in the How'd tHAT Happen? Challenge. DaVinci Award.

This team took exemplary risk by tying two "mechanical" acts with exemplary logistics
and mechanics that added to the complete solution.

Pinkerton Academy, Secondary Level, "How'd tHAT Happen?" Challenge. DaVinci Award.

This award is given for exceptional creativity in the development of the theme and presentation.
The team took a path less traveled, with humor and imagination. Creative delivery was unified
by character development and a rich and creative use of costumes that enhanced their solution
in a truly unique way. The team's polished presentation took it to the next level!

Dawn Desmond, Team Manager, Spirit of Discovery and ImagiNation (DI).

Although she was our team manager, I have never seen anyone who wore more hats than my mom. She was a mentor, a friend, a teammate, and a shoulder to cry on. She cared for each team member as if they were her own child. After 13 years, 13 problems, 10 teams, 6 trips to Global Finals, 32 competitions and one too many pizza parties, she never once lost focus on what is really
important! She never let us loose focus either. As serious as we can all take this competition,
she always made sure we were having fun. She helped us all stay true to the creative and
pioneering spirit of D.I.!