LWSD students shine at state track meet for students with vision impairments

Six Lake Washington School District (LWSD) students demonstrated determination, resilience and athletic achievement at the Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) Annual Track Meet on May 28 in Vancouver, Washington. The event brings together students ages 5-21 who are blind or have low vision from across Washington state for a day of competition, connection and celebration of athletic accomplishment.

The participants in this event from LWSD are as follows:

• Bavanya Ramesh, kindergarten, Alcott Elementary School
• Lisha Deng, grade 4, Rosa Parks Elementary School
• Makinlee Brantner, grade 4, McAuliffe Elementary School
• Jeremiah Gopie, grade 5, Mead Elementary School
• Cinco Patterson, grade 5, Blackwell Elementary School
• Paulina Maragni Arrascaeta, grade 9, Eastlake High School

The students were accompanied by Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments Jessica Semingson and Mary Ellen Pesavento, along with family members who cheered them on throughout the day.

Hosted annually by WSSB, the track meet is designed to provide students who are blind or have low vision with opportunities to build confidence, develop athletic skills and connect with peers from around the state in an inclusive and supportive environment. Participants compete within age groups and vision classifications to ensure fair and meaningful competition.

LWSD athletes competed in a variety of track and field events, including:

• 50-meter dash
• 100-meter run
• 200-meter run
• Shot put
• Javelin
• Standing long jump
• Running long jump

Competing against students from across Washington, all six LWSD athletes earned placement ribbons in their respective events. The highlight of the day came when Jeremiah Gopie earned the medal for highest-scoring athlete in the 11-12 age group.

Through personalized support from staff, high expectations and meaningful learning experiences, these athletes demonstrated perseverance, confidence and student ownership while challenging themselves in new and rigorous ways. Their participation also highlights LWSD's commitment to equity and inclusion by ensuring students have access to opportunities that help them thrive both in and outside the classroom.