Cascadia Latin Conference at Explorer West!

A Day of Fun, Competition, and Achievement

Last Saturday, Explorer West hosted the much-anticipated Cascadia Convention, a gathering that brought together students from various schools to engage in a day filled with athletic, creative, and academic competitions. We were excited to host the convention for the second year!

Joining us were students from Our Lady of the Sea, Overlake, and two students from Eton School in Bellevue. With a total of approximately 65 kids in attendance, the event showcased the spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition among Latin scholars.

The convention featured a diverse range of activities tailored to different age groups and interests. From athletic contests like shot put, long jump, and various running races, to Roman wrestling.

You may be curious about Roman Wrestling: Two opponents in a small circle, grip each other's forearms (Roman handshake wrestling stance) and lean in. They strategize when to release their grip so they can remove the two scarves tucked into their opponent's waist band. Once they release their grip, they move quickly around the small circle, dodging and darting to grab the scarves. It takes speed, tactics and agility to remove their scarves without stepping out of the circle.

There were also creative challenges such as impromptu art events where students repurposed rubber duckies and crafted buildings and catapults from popsicle sticks, there was something for everyone to enjoy and excel in.

One of the highlights of the day was the academic contests, where students competed not only based on their grade level but also on Latin proficiency. This innovative approach allowed for fair and engaging competitions across a spectrum of subjects, including ancient geography, mythology, Latin grammar, and creative writing.

The energy and passion exhibited by Explorer West students didn't go unnoticed. Many families and teachers commended our school for its vibrant atmosphere and admired the student artwork, ceramics, and outdoor education photos on display throughout the building. It was a testament to the holistic educational experience at Explorer West.

As the convention drew to a close, the excitement continued with the announcement of the prize winners. Explorer West students showcased their talents and knowledge across multiple categories, earning accolades in both academic excellence and creative expression.

From winning first place in gladiatorial combat to excelling in costume contests and academic exams, our students demonstrated their core values of confidence, integrity, creativity, and inquiry.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the prize winners and participants who represented Explorer West with pride and distinction. A special thank you to Cilla, our 7th Grade Latin teacher, for all of your hard work to arrange this exciting event.

We are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate the talents and achievements of our students. The Cascadia Convention not only showcased the incredible potential of our young learners but also served as a reminder of the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Thank you to everyone who participated and supported the Cascadia Convention. Your enthusiasm and spirit made it a truly unforgettable experience. We look forward to more opportunities to come together and celebrate the achievements of our Explorer West family in the future!