The Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center, which provides services for area school districts including Galion, has unveiled a thrilling lineup of student events for the 2024-2025 academic year, designed to engage students from elementary to high school across various disciplines. From Academic Challenges to Spelling Bees and the vibrant Artapalooza, there’s something for every student looking to showcase their talents and skills.

Academic Challenges Galore

The Academic Challenge events are the cornerstone of Mid-Ohio ESC’s student engagement. These competitions are structured to push students’ intellectual boundaries, fostering both critical thinking and teamwork.

  • High School League: Set for Fall and Winter, the High School League will kick off on October 21, followed by subsequent competitions on October 28 and November 4. Winter dates include February 10, February 24, and March 3. The locations for these events vary, and participants are encouraged to contact the districts hosting the events for more information.
  • High School Tournaments: Mark your calendars for November 21 or 22 and March 13 or 14 for these intense competitions, with details on costs available upon request.
  • 7th-8th Grade (Middle School): Middle schoolers will compete on January 29, March 18, and May 14 (evenings) at the Mid-Ohio ESC. The participation fee is $45 for clients/members and $150 for non-clients.
  • 6th Grade (Elementary): For 6th graders, the Academic Challenge dates are January 28, March 19 (day), and May 13 (day). Like the middle school event, the cost is $45 for clients/members and $150 for non-clients.
  • 5th Grade (Elementary): Younger students in 5th grade will have their Academic Challenge on January 22 and March 13 (evenings), with a lower participation fee of $30 for clients/members and $100 for non-clients.
  • 4th Grade (Elementary): The 4th-grade event is scheduled for January 23 and March 12 (evenings), with the same fee structure as the 5th grade.

Leanna Ferreira is the contact person for all Academic Challenge events and can be reached at ferreira.leanna@moesc.net for more details.

Artapalooza 2025: A Celebration of Creativity

For the artists among us, Artapalooza 2025 promises to be a highlight of the school year. Running from April 4 through April 9, 2025, this event invites students to showcase their artistic talents at the Mid-Ohio ESC. There is no cost for clients/members, while non-clients will be charged $200. The event is expected to be a vibrant celebration of creativity across various mediums, with Jenny Pennell serving as the contact person at pennell.jennifer@moesc.net.

Spelling Bee Buzz

The traditional Spelling Bee events are back with a twist! This year, the competitions will be held virtually, making them accessible to a broader audience.

  • Crawford & Morrow County (Combined): This combined event will take place on January 16 at 10:00 AM. It is free for clients/members, while non-clients will need to pay $100.
  • Richland County: The Richland County Spelling Bee is scheduled for January 23 at 10:00 AM, also held virtually. This event is free for clients/members and $100 for non-clients.
  • Tri-County Final: The winners from the earlier rounds will move on to the Tri-County Final on February 13 at 6:30 PM at the Mid-Ohio ESC.

Leah Barger is the go-to person for all things related to the Spelling Bee. You can reach her at barger.leah@moesc.net for more information.