Science Olympiad functions much like a football or soccer team, requiring preparation, commitment, coaching and practice throughout the year. Each  team is allowed to bring 15 students who cross-train for a variety of events in their skill set, but at duPont Manual High School we typically have more than 75 members, allowing for 4 teams that function like an apprentice and mentoring system.

​

Science Olympiad competitions are like academic track meets, consisting of a series of 23 team events in each division.  Each year, a portion of the events are rotated to reflect the ever-changing nature of genetics, earth science, chemistry, anatomy, physics, geology, mechanical engineering and technology. By combining events from all disciplines, Science Olympiad encourages a wide cross-section of students to get involved. Emphasis is placed on active, hands-on group participation. Through Science Olympiad, students, teachers, parents, principals and business leaders bond together and work toward a shared goal.

Teamwork is a required skill in most scientific careers today, and Science Olympiad encourages group learning by designing events that forge alliances. In Elevated Bridge, an engineering whiz and a kid from wood shop can become gold medalists. Similarly, a talented builder and a student with a good science vocabulary can excel in Write It Do It, one of Science Olympiad's most popular events.

The culmination of nearly 300 Regional and State tournaments (and about 100 practice Invitationals!) is the Science Olympiad National Tournament, held at a different university each year. This rotating system gives students the opportunity to visit new parts of the country and tour colleges they might consider for their undergraduate studies, and provides a memorable experience that lasts a lifetime.