Bellevue, WA – May 28, 2025 – The Bellevue School District at Interlake High School is excited to announce the Day of Champions, scheduled for May 30th from 9:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. With unwavering support from the community, this second annual event is funded entirely through community and business donations in a time when public education and inadequate funding have made local and national headlines.   

We are grateful for the support of our community partners and sponsors, including Amazon, Bank of America, The Bellevue Collection, Bellevue PTSA, Dick's Burgers, State Farm, Guild Mortgage, Honda of Kirkland, and Trader Joe's. All contributions help our special needs students realize their fullest potential and gain skills that build independence. 

Heather McClean, a Special education teacher who created and organizes this event, said, “I envisioned an event that was both new and inspiring, featuring 10 highly modified activities, unified opportunities for high school students, and participation from adult transition students. My goal was to create an inclusive celebration that highlights every student's strengths and potential while reinforcing a culture of belonging and pride throughout our community. The mission was simple: to create a day filled with a million smiles. After our inaugural event last year, I can confidently say we succeeded.”  

This year’s highlights include:  

? A new inflatable tunnel  

? Food from Dick’s food truck and Golden Steer burgers  

? An inflatable hockey activity  

? Treats for our athletes: shirts, bracelets, medals, Mariners Crocs charms, and more!  

Additionally, we highlight the P.A.C.I.F.I.C. program in the Bellevue School District, which stands for Progress, Academics, Community, Independence, Functional Integration, Innovation, and Communication.   

The Transitions Program helps students and families identify strengths and work with students to utilize those skills with local businesses, fostering self-confidence and a level of independence. 

The Bellevue School District, with over 19,000 students and 28 schools, is a diverse and dynamic district in East King County, Washington. Its mission is "To serve each and every student academically, socially, and emotionally through a rigorous and relevant education that is innovative and individualized. As a learning community that values one another's humanity, we provide courageous support for an equitable and exceptional education for all students."