Our most important goal in KSD is to prepare our students for their future in work and life. In Destination Imagination (DI), students work together in teams to solve open-ended STEAM (S-Science, T-Technology, E-Engineering, A-Arts, M-Math) challenges that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration.

Being an appraiser for Destination Imagination (DI) presents a unique opportunity for teachers to gain firsthand experience in evaluating student-led, STEAM-based projects. This role not only allows educators to observe innovative problem-solving and creative thinking in action but also equips them with valuable strategies they can incorporate into their own classroom settings. Here are the ways in which this experience can enhance teaching practices:

Participants will:

1. Participate in a challenge to gain an understanding of the implementation of STEAM
2. Understand diverse approaches to solving complex challenges
3. Developing effective methods for embedding STEAM education into the lesson
4. Foster techniques for promoting student-directed learning
5. Learning strategies that facilitate teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution
6. Learn how to assess creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving using the DI rubric

To earn the full amount of clock hours offered, participants will:

1. Attend a 4 hour training on 2/7/26 at the Richland High School Library 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (If you have appraised before, you only need to attend from 12:00-2:00 pm) snacks will be provided
2. Demonstrate your assessing skills at the Regional DI Competition as an appraiser on 3/7/26 at Richland High School 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (hours vary) Lunch will be provided