El Camino Creek Elementary’s spirited Breakdancing Burritos team is heading to the prestigious Odyssey of the Mind World Finals this May in Michigan. Competing in Division 2, the team has demonstrated extraordinary creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving to triumph at both regional and state levels, according to a news release.
The Breakdancing Burritos — a lively group composed of two third graders, three fifth graders, and two sixth graders — captured first place at regionals and went on to dominate the California State Finals, winning by an impressive 35-point margin. Such a decisive victory is nearly unheard of in Odyssey of the Mind, where winners are typically separated by just a few points.
Odyssey of the Mind is a global creative problem-solving competition that challenges students to develop imaginative solutions to complex scenarios using principles from STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Teams present their solutions through engaging performances that combine engineering, storytelling, and artistry.
The Breakdancing Burritos took on the “Cooking with Classics” challenge, giving Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass a deliciously clever twist. Their performance was packed with puns — one judge noted they had never heard so many in an eight-minute skit. The team’s comedic flair, inventive storytelling, and detailed set design made their interpretation truly unforgettable, the news release stated.
The Odyssey of the Mind World Finals will be held at Michigan State University from May 21–24. This marks the Breakdancing Burritos’ first appearance at the global competition, where they will showcase their talents alongside teams from around the world.
The team is currently raising funds to cover travel and registration costs. The community is encouraged to these young innovators as they represent the Encinitas School District on the world stage.
Donate here: GoFundMe – Breakdancing Burritos: shorturl.at/NxAUP
