Minnesota Destination ImagiNation
Minnesota Destination ImagiNation
Sponsored by Intermediate District 287
Pamela Schroeder, MN Destination ImagiNation Director

CELEBRATING CREATIVITY ACROSS THE STATE!

Welcome to MN Destination ImagiNation creativity!

This site is your entry point for MN DI, the state's largest non-athletic team activity. DI is for ALL learners of all ages! We have something for everyone: Rising Stars for K-2, annual Destination ImagiNation Challenges and Instant Challenges for grades 3-college, Tech Effects for grades 3-12, Project Outreach for middle and high schoolers, DI eX Treme for college and university students, DI Later for adults, and opportunities to appraise, help at Tournaments, or be part of our State Advisory Board. So, join the team and join in the fun!

Check this site frequently for new information!
(Updated 4/21/08)

What is DI?
DI is the world's largest creative problem solving program for kindergarten through college-aged learners, going strong in 50 states and over 40 countries. Teams of up to 7 members solve one of six different Challenges, which they perform in front of appraisers at tournaments. DI participants develop life skills while solving challenges through their unique hands-on experiences in the sciences, technology, mechanics, engineering, theater, improvisation, goal setting, time and budget management, team building, and leadership. Our ultimate goal is to teach participants that through their creativity, teamwork, and perseverance, they can DIvelop creative solutions to complex problems completely on their own! For more information on all DI's programs, see the DI, Inc. website at www.idodi.org.

Who can join? Anyone! Your school, PTA, gifted program, Community Ed or after school program, homeschool group, YMCA or YWCA, Scouting programs, 4H, community organization, your family - anyone up for a challenge and fun!

Check out the FAQS!
 

How Do I Do DI?

Sneak a peek at the 2007-2008 Challenges!

A Look Ahead to 2009!

How can your kids, your classroom, your club, your home school, your college pals join the fun? It's easy! It starts with purchasing a DI Membership, and you're off and running. DI Team Challenges and program materials are released annually on September 1. A typical season runs anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, with most teams organizing between October and January. Team and Team Manager training is offered around in each region from October through January. Appraiser trainings are held in February, and regional tournaments begin around the state. For all the details of how DI works and who is involved from team member to Team Manager, read the DI Program Guide. Easy registration begins when you press the Register button at www.idodi.org. Click here for a paper application.
 

Heads Up!

What do you have in common with Zac Efron? He's a DI'er, too! Read all about it in the August, 2007 issue of Rolling Stone! Read more about his Improv experience in popcorn.
Zac Efron Upbeat Improv Winner  Zac Efron Rolling Stones Cover  Zac Efron Popcorn Article

MN DI Minnetoada Monthly Newsletter Launches!
Check out the latest news here:
   January/February Issue
   December Issue
   November Issue
   September Issue

 

Congratulations, DI Teams!
Congratulations to all our MN DI teams for your wonderful performances at our eight regional tournaments. We could not be prouder of the inspiring creativity, depth, and passion you displayed. You wowed us!

Hats off to all Team Managers and Program Coordinators, and our thanks to each of you. You are all winners!
 
State Tournament 2008 Updated Info!4/21
It was a fun-tastic day! Our MN DI teams were superb at the State Tournament. The day was fulled with breathtaking, awe-inspiring, and hilarious performances. We couldn't be prouder of all MN DI teams.

Congratulations to all, and good luck to Team Minnesota as 47 teams head for Global Finals 2008! See the tournament results here.
 
MN DI 2007-2008 DIrectory
Contact Regional Directors, State Challenge Masters, and MN DI Staff via phone or email by referring to our DIrectory.
 
State Tournament Registration Form
Click here to register online for your MN DI State Tournament. Fees for the State Tournament are $50 for Tech Effects teams, and $150 for all other teams. Make sure to print a copy for your records before you submit the form.
 
MN DI 2007-2008 Tournaments
Please see Regional Information, below, for more details and general schedules for the tournaments. NOTE: The Glencoe-Silver Lake tournament has moved to Minnetonka High School on March 15.
DATE TOURNAMENT TOURNAMENT SITE
Feb. 23 West Metro Maple Grove Senior High School
March 1 East Metro Harding Senior High School
March 1 Rochester Willow Creek Middle School
March 8 North Metro Blaine High School
March 8 Moorhead Horizon Middle School
March 15 Southwest Metro/ Glencoe-Silver Lake Minnetonka High School
March 15 Duluth Denfeld High School
April 19 State Tournament Chaska High School

Please note that we never plan to cancel tournaments due to poor weather, as we are unable to reschedule them. In the case of really inclement weather, please check my voice mail message at 763-550-7212 by 5:00 a.m. Safety first! Use your own judgement as to your ability to travel safely. If you are unable to attend a tournament due to weather conditions, we will review the possibility of rescheduling you at a later tournament on a case by case basis.
 

Regional Information
Regional Web Pages can be found here! Check these pages for details on regional training, tournaments, and directions. You can also reference www.SchoolDirections.com for more detailed maps and directions. Full descriptions and registration forms for trainings can be found in the 2007-2008 Trainings bullet, above.

MN Destination ImagiNation Certificates!
Download our colorful interactive Certificates of Appreciation, Participation and Outstanding Team Manager to thank those special folks who do DI!
 
DI 101: Growing Your DI Program
How do successful programs recruit team members? How is team spirit and excitement kept alive during the tournament season? How do you promote recognition of team accomplishments? How do you end the season on a high note and keep teams involved year after year?

Check out our guide to downloadable activities and resources, contributed by dozens of Minnesota DI Program Coordinators, Contacts, and Team Managers. Activities are organized via timeline and can be implemented at any level and within any organization. Discover how you can make your DI program "Kid Powered - Team Driven!"
 

Coordinator/Contact: Phrases used to describe your contact, the coordinator of your local DI program. This is the person who oversees the whole program for a district or organization, gives out information, registers teams, etc.
Managing your DI Program using our Coordinator Tools to navigate your season from start-up to tournament. Updated monthly!
 
Support MN DI's Corporate Supporters
Corporations value the skills that Destination ImagiNation fosters.
MN DI thanks...

3M
3M Worldwide  
MindWare
MindWare
State Farm
State Farm
Best Buy
Best Buy
Cargill  
Cargill
Computer Associates  
Computer Associates
Honeywell  
Honeywell
Kemps  
Kemps
Target  
Target
Breslin Canvas Works  
Breslin Canvas Works
Dudley Riggs Brave New Workshop  
Dudley Riggs
Brave New
Workshop
and... Lakeview Associates

for their support!
 
Join DImail, MN DI's Email List for Team Managers, Passport Contacts, and District Coordinators:
DImail, a post-only list, brings you breaking news, tips, opportunities, and reminders. It's your MN DI support system. To subscribe, simply send an email to pfschroeder@district287.org.
 
What's New?
  • 25th Anniversary Video Contest!
    WE R DI®…and ?


    You do DI! Your friends do DI! Your school does DI! What does that mean to you and your team? We are looking for an answer to this very important question!

    HERE’S THE CHALLENGE: We are looking for the very best 30 second “commercial-type” video that will answer the question: WE R DI …and?

    It’s gotta be funny, entertaining, positive, exciting and well made. Each entry must also demonstrate creativity, teamwork and problem solving. Entries must be uploaded to a video web site (e.g., YouTube, TeacherTube) by May 5, 2008. See all the details here!

  • You can see the Intro to DI video and videos of DI performances on YouTube! Just search for Destination ImagiNation - check out the Opening and Closing Ceremonies from Global Finals 2007!
    You Tube

  • Destination ImagiNaton and DI Alumni are in Facebook groups! Search in Groups for Destination ImagiNation.

    Facebook

  • AEM Construction Challenge! The Association of Equipment Manufacturers has teamed up with DI to offer an exciting opportunity for high schoolers! Check out www.constructionchallenge.org for all the details!

    AEM Construction Challenge


  • See the latest DI Imaginings newsletter! -- NEW!

  • Introducing By:DI-Sign

    Destination ImagiNation® is very proud to introduce the latest support resource for DI teams. This subscription-based bulletin is available to anyone participating in the Destination ImagiNation program and includes 12 bi-weekly editions beginning October 2007 and ending in March 2008. 

    Each edition includes content to guide DI teams through the process of creative problem solving and building a successful team.  Every month you will receive Instant and Mini Challenges, team building activities, CPS tools, and more. By:DI-sign subscribers are also eligible for exclusive ShopDI promotions, first dibs notice on new resources and prize offerings. Subscribe at www.shopdi.org.

Project Outreach

Combining the energy of youth, the educational value of creative problem solving and the motivation of peer support and recognition, projectOUTREACH is an opportunity for middle and high schoolers to embark on a truly unique community project experience. projectOUTREACH recognizes that leadership skills, along with creative problem solving, critical thinking and human relations, play a tremendous part in shaping the lives of our future leaders. Are you a civic minded group? Channel your drive into making a difference at home!
 
Calling Appraisers!
Join the team and see the most creative learners in the state! Appraiser Registration Form is here.
 
Shop DI
Where can you find all the great DI goodies, from Passports to paraphernalia? ShopDI!
 
Books Available for Purchase
Jump start your creativity with these great resources!
 
Employee Volunteer Programs Benefit MN Destination ImagiNation
3M, State Farm, Cargill, Best Buy, American Express and Xcel Energy are among corporations that offer donation programs to employees/retirees who volunteer for non-profit programs. DI Team Managers, Appraisers, Program Coordinators, and Tournament Volunteers verify hours of service and MN DI receives fiscal support. Check with your company or contact MN DI Director Pamela Schroeder at 763-550-7212 or pfschroeder@district287.org.
 
Earn College Credit as a DI Appraiser or Team Manager
The University of Minnesota - Duluth is offering the opportunity to earn .5 credit through your involvement as a DI Appraiser and 1 credit as a Team Manager. Contact Duluth Regional Director Mary Ann Rotondi for specifics.
 
Global Finals 2008!

Global Finals 2008

Check the Global Finals 2008 web site for all the late-breaking details of the world's greatest creative problem solving competition! Join the party May 21-24, 2008! Better yet, be a volunteer!


Volunteer at Global Finals 2008!

We are currently seeking volunteers for DI eXtreme, projectOUTREACH, ImagiNation-4-Life Camps, and the Dairy Nutrition & Fitness Challenge! Check out the www.globalfinals.org website!

DI eXtremeDI eXtreme

Now Open for College AND Secondary Level Participation at Global Finals!

If you are a college or high school student, DI has some eXtreme Challenges for you! Push yourself to the edge of your creative powers and find out what you can really do under pressure! Check here to register for Global Finals 2008!
 

Awards and Scholarships

  • DIstinguished Leader Award, for ExtraorDInary High School Seniors!

    2008 DIstinguished Leaders are Erik Grindal, Brent Harries, Kevin Karner, Matt Steen, Steve Thyken, Nora Vanni, Stephanie Vilendrer, and Will Schroeder. Congratulations to these exceptional young men and women!

  • MudDI Waters Scholarship for Seniors
    The MudDI Waters is a consortium of 10 DI Affiliates who work together to promote DI. Members include Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The Consortium pools resources to offer three scholarships annually to graduating DI'ers. Congratulations to 2008 MudDI Waters scholarship winner Amy Chatelaine, from Owatonna, MN!

  • Destination ImagiNation Support Committee Scholarships
     
  • Great Links!
    Visit these websites for practice instant challenges, creativity ideas and machine how-to's.
    MN DI Mission Statement

    Minnesota Destination ImagiNation cultivates creative problem solvers and risk takers, providing our participants with innovative opportunities based on FUN in learning, divergent thinking and team-building skills.


    Destination ImagiNation Destination ImagiNationTM is a non-profit organization supported by affiliates (states, provinces, and nations) working together to offer a global, youth-centered creative problem-solving program. This international organization for kindergarten through college students teaches life skills and expands imaginations through team-based creative problem solving. Visit their web site for guides, registration, Affiliates, Team Challenge Synopses, FAQ, and more. Sponsor: National Dairy Council

    Pamela Schroeder, Minnesota Destination ImagiNation Director
    Gifted Education Services
    Intermediate District 287
    1820 Xenium Lane North
    Plymouth, MN 55441
    (763) 550-7212
    pfschroeder@district287.org
    URL: www.mndi.org


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