The Long Beach Odyssey of the Mind teams recently competed at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals held at Iowa State University. The event brought together teams from 42 states and 25 countries, making it one of the largest academic competitions in the world.

Once again, Long Beach students made their families, coaches and schools proud. The Long Beach teams achieved outstanding results against some of the most talented young problem-solvers from around the globe. Student creativity, teamwork, dedication, and perseverance were on full display at the highest level of competition.

Congratulations to the following:

Problem 2 – Middle School Division
Team members: Isla Lomitolla, Mavis Fox, Arwynn Donofrio, Zoey Pinto, Maddie Eckert, Rowan McLaughlin, and Caroline McCarthy. This team finished 21st overall in their division and 10th in the world in Long-Term performance.

Problem 3 – Middle School Division
Team members: Kyveli Pelfani, Jasa Decese, Nila Pennant, Farhaal Kahn, Rauri Kennedy, Freyja Bay Rowlands and Layla Collucci. This team finished 5th in the world in Long-Term performance and 10th overall in their division.

Coaches Middle School: Eric Fox and Douglas MacConnell.

Problem 2 – Elementary Division
Team members: Waverly Schaffer, Summer Schaffer, Will Cohen, Elle Cohen, Dana Donofrio, Sadie Bergstiens and Maebry Kotula. This team finished 4th in the world in Long-Term performance and 9th overall in their division.

Problem 3 – Elementary Division
Team members: Anna Chapman, Lexi Fink, Jackson Dali, Jackson DeVito, Rafe Kaminsky, Sariyah Tobin, Max Sendik, and Maisie McChesney. This remarkable team finished NUMBER ONE IN THE WORLD in Long-Term performance and 8th overall in their division.

Coaches Elementary: Andie Techera and Douglas MacConnell.

Special gratitude to the administrators who supported the teams throughout the year, especially Mrs. Connolly for providing a home for the program. Also, thanks to the Board of Education for its continued support.

Congratulations to all our competitors on an unforgettable season!

As part of East School’s Centennial Celebration, students, staff, alumni, and community members took part in a memorable journey through the school’s history with a special “Decades Display” and interactive “Living Museum” presentation during the school’s 100th anniversary festivities on May 15.

The exhibit, set up in the school gymnasium, showcased artifacts, photographs, memorabilia, and historical items representing East School’s rich legacy through the decades. The display honored the traditions, memories, and milestones that have shaped the school community over the past 100 years.

In addition, East School’s fourth grade students brought history to life through an engaging Living Museum experience. Students presented interactive historical portrayals designed to educate and entertain guests while highlighting important moments, influential figures, and cherished traditions connected to the school’s enduring legacy.

The celebration continued May 19 with an outdoor block party-style event held on the school playground from 5 to 8 p.m. The evening brought together students, alumni, families, current and former staff members, neighbors, and community supporters to honor a century of education, service, and school pride.

As part of the centennial festivities, East School also recognized honored guests whose dedication and contributions have made a lasting impact on the school community throughout the years.

“We are thrilled to celebrate 100 years of East School with the people who have helped shape its history,” said Principal Kathleen Connolly. “This milestone is an opportunity to honor our legacy, reconnect generations of families and alumni, and look ahead to the future of our school community.”

The celebration was filled with community spirit, opportunities to reconnect with classmates and colleagues, and moments that commemorated East School’s rich history and lasting impact in Long Beach.

Special thanks to the East PTA for its hard work and dedication in coordinating, organizing, and sponsoring such a memorable celebration in honor of East School’s 100th Anniversary.

 

Date Added: 5/22/2026