Destination Imagination (DI) Program
Glenelg Country School’s Destination Imagination (DI) program is a dynamic, student-driven initiative that empowers youngsters to become innovative problem-solvers through STEAM-inspired challenges. Launched in the Middle School around March 2023, the program offers students—from sixth to twelfth grade—a creative outlet to collaborate, think outside the box, and tackle one of DI’s seven open-ended challenges, culminating in regional, state, and even global competitions.
During the 2022–23 season, two GCS middle school teams took on distinct technical and engineering challenges. One group constructed “puzzle solvers,” mechanical devices that manipulated puzzle pieces without human touch, while weaving a narrative around a character’s pivotal moment. The other designed a golf-ball rollercoaster using just 14 materials—no nails or screws—complete with a launching mechanism and immersive story presentation. Both teams earned top honors at the state level and advanced to Global Finals.
At the 2025 Global Finals in Kansas City, an Upper School team from GCS achieved third place in the Secondary-level Scientific “Worlds Beyond” challenge—Diamond-level recognition on the international stage. Beyond wins, the program emphasizes essential “instant challenges,” requiring students to demonstrate teamwork, agility, and creative thinking under time pressure. Participants grow not only in technical skills but also in resilience, project management, and communication—learning that real innovation often involves starting over, iterating, and collaborating with peers.
This article is part of our 2025-2026 Guide to Baltimore Independent School Guide.
