The Seattle Seahawks may not be going to the Super Bowl this year, but ESD 112 has found a team of champions in the Kalama ESA staff.
Led by Head Coach Sean McDonald, an Elementary Special Education teacher, Kalama High School’s football team battled it out in the Tacoma Dome on November 30, 2018 and won their second straight 2B State Championship.
Rachel Schlangen and Tammy Smith, Life Skills teachers at the middle and high school in Kalama, were also at the championship game. Through their efforts, Kalama’s students with exceptional needs were able to go to the game at the Tacoma Dome and watch their team win the title.
“I think it is brilliant that all three special education staff members are also outstanding ESD employees,” says Jeffrey Niess, ESD 112 Executive Director of Specialized Student Services.
McDonald, along with the other divisional State Championship coaches in Washington State, also participated in raising the 12th Fan flag at a Seahawks game last month.
Having been to two state games myself in high school in the Tacoma Dome (Shout out to East Valley-Yakima!) I remember how exciting it was to be there alongside my classmates cheering on our team! I think it is wonderful that Tammy and Rachel made this possible for their students! Congrats Kalama and so glad you three are our employees!