2024 Missouri State Science Olympiad Rules Clarifications

STATE CLARIFICATION: USE OF LEAD IN BUILD EVENTS

Safety has always been of the utmost importance in Science Olympiad. Coaches should always ensure that team members are well versed on the proper handling of chemicals and all potentially hazardous materials.  Many materials can be hazardous when mishandled yet with proper care and handling these same materials can be considered relatively safe for use. While we recognize that lead can be potentially hazardous, we also recognize that when safe handling is followed, ma of these concerns can be mitigated. We encourage coaches to discuss the safe handling of all compounds in the laboratory setting. With this said, the use of lead in building events, especially in regards to making weights will not be prohibited.

STATE CLARIFICATION: SEPARATE SCHOOLS

When determining the eligibility of a ninth grader to compete on a B division team the national rules regarding eligibility will be followed. Schools that are grades X-8 may only invite a ninth grader to participate on their team if that ninth grader was enrolled in the grade X-8 school in the eighth grade. In determining if a school is a separate school, a school is considered a separate school if it has its own administrator.

NATIONAL RULE CLARIFICATION: TEAM COMPOSITION AND SENIORS

If senior chooses to graduate at the semester they will not lose their eligibility to compete on their school's Science Olympiad team for the remainder of the season. If a senior does choose to graduate at semester and continue to participate on their school's Science Olympiad team they will still count toward the seven senior limit.

STATE CLARIFICATION: FORESTRY

The state tournament will use the Missouri Tree List for the forestry event. The Missouri Tree List can be downloaded here.

STATE CLARIFICATION: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

General rule #1 states: 

Actions and items (e.g., tools, notes, resources, supplies, electronics, etc.) are permitted, unless they are explicitly  excluded in the rules, are unsafe, or violate the spirit of the problem.

Based upon this interpretation, the use of a hand lens to assist with reading notes is allowed.

No clarifications at this time

No clarifications at this time