Where and when do you meet?
Meetings are held on Fridays from August - April in Round Rock on Sam Bass Road. The middle school team meets weekly from 1:00 - 3:00. The high school team meets on the 1st, 3rd, and any 5th Fridays of the month from 12:00 - 2:00. We don't meet on holidays or over Christmas break.
What are Friday meetings like?
Our meeting format prioritizes a low-key, relaxed environment where the kids can build friendships and have fun. Meetings may include break-out collaborative study time for individuals and small groups, lectures and instruction on particular topics, discussion and analysis of various current events and discoveries within the scientific community, science videos or documentaries, just-for-fun social time, games, and other media & activities that build community, increase knowledge, and promote team spirit.
Does my student have to compete in Science Olympiad?
Yes, that's a requirement. But with 23 events in multiple disciplines, there's something for everyone.
What happens at competitions?
They're often all-day affairs, held usually on University or high school campuses. The events are usually in 50 minute time blocks, and in between their events the kids hang out in our designated "home base" area to relax, socialize, play games, and generally enjoy the atmosphere. There's typically an Awards Ceremony in the evening, and wow, the excitement and enthusiasm from cheering teammates as results are announced & kids go up on stage for their medals is simply amazing!
How much time does it take?
We encourage our team members to put aside at least 2 - 3 hours per week at home for Science Olympiad prep, with more time likely needed closer to major competitions. Kids on the most successful teams often log 10+ hours per week or more. Bottom line, the more prep and study time invested, the higher one's chances for success.
How much does it cost?
Dues are expected to be approximately $175 per child for the entire season. This amount covers our overhead and some competition fees. Team shirts are required and usually run around $15. There may be additional competition fees of $15 - $20, and travel expenses for any out-of-town competitions are the families' responsibility. Most events will have incidental costs such notebooks, paper/printing, and/or supplies such as balsa wood or other building materials. We strive to keep costs as low as possible for our members. If dues and other fees are prohibitive for your family, please reach out to us discuss options.
What's the difference between Division B and Division C?
All middle school Science Olympiad teams are designated as Division B. All high school Science Olympiad teams are designated as Division C.
Are you a non-profit?
Yes, we are a division of ATX Robotics, a 501(c)(3) organization here in Central Texas. ATX Robotics is also affiliated with Howdy Bots, a First Robotics Competition community team.
What if my child schools at home AND attends an online or virtual public school?
Science Olympiad Rules prohibit participation on a homeschool science team for students who attend an online, public middle- or high school. Academic / enrichment homeschool pods or co-ops and dual credit high school classes at Austin Community College are NOT the same as public middle and high school, and are therefore allowed with no restrictions. Please ask us if you have eligibility questions.
What if we don't reside in Travis or Williamson county?
Science Olympiad rules require our team members to live in Travis or Williamson county. Ask us if you need clarification.
Meetings are held on Fridays from August - April in Round Rock on Sam Bass Road. The middle school team meets weekly from 1:00 - 3:00. The high school team meets on the 1st, 3rd, and any 5th Fridays of the month from 12:00 - 2:00. We don't meet on holidays or over Christmas break.
What are Friday meetings like?
Our meeting format prioritizes a low-key, relaxed environment where the kids can build friendships and have fun. Meetings may include break-out collaborative study time for individuals and small groups, lectures and instruction on particular topics, discussion and analysis of various current events and discoveries within the scientific community, science videos or documentaries, just-for-fun social time, games, and other media & activities that build community, increase knowledge, and promote team spirit.
Does my student have to compete in Science Olympiad?
Yes, that's a requirement. But with 23 events in multiple disciplines, there's something for everyone.
What happens at competitions?
They're often all-day affairs, held usually on University or high school campuses. The events are usually in 50 minute time blocks, and in between their events the kids hang out in our designated "home base" area to relax, socialize, play games, and generally enjoy the atmosphere. There's typically an Awards Ceremony in the evening, and wow, the excitement and enthusiasm from cheering teammates as results are announced & kids go up on stage for their medals is simply amazing!
How much time does it take?
We encourage our team members to put aside at least 2 - 3 hours per week at home for Science Olympiad prep, with more time likely needed closer to major competitions. Kids on the most successful teams often log 10+ hours per week or more. Bottom line, the more prep and study time invested, the higher one's chances for success.
How much does it cost?
Dues are expected to be approximately $175 per child for the entire season. This amount covers our overhead and some competition fees. Team shirts are required and usually run around $15. There may be additional competition fees of $15 - $20, and travel expenses for any out-of-town competitions are the families' responsibility. Most events will have incidental costs such notebooks, paper/printing, and/or supplies such as balsa wood or other building materials. We strive to keep costs as low as possible for our members. If dues and other fees are prohibitive for your family, please reach out to us discuss options.
What's the difference between Division B and Division C?
All middle school Science Olympiad teams are designated as Division B. All high school Science Olympiad teams are designated as Division C.
Are you a non-profit?
Yes, we are a division of ATX Robotics, a 501(c)(3) organization here in Central Texas. ATX Robotics is also affiliated with Howdy Bots, a First Robotics Competition community team.
What if my child schools at home AND attends an online or virtual public school?
Science Olympiad Rules prohibit participation on a homeschool science team for students who attend an online, public middle- or high school. Academic / enrichment homeschool pods or co-ops and dual credit high school classes at Austin Community College are NOT the same as public middle and high school, and are therefore allowed with no restrictions. Please ask us if you have eligibility questions.
What if we don't reside in Travis or Williamson county?
Science Olympiad rules require our team members to live in Travis or Williamson county. Ask us if you need clarification.