Camrynn Blakely reached the Braille Challenge Finals for the fourth consecutive time this year. The Owensboro native is one of only 50 students between grades 1-12 to compete in this week’s competition that spans all of North America.
Host by the Braille Institute, the challenge is a one-of-a-kind academic competition for blind and visually impaired students. Assessments in reading comprehension, spelling, speed and accuracy, proofreading, and charts and graphs form a total score for each competitor.
An outgoing 5th-grade student at East View Elementary School, Blakely will attend Daviess County Middle School in the fall. As she anxiously prepares for Wednesday’s competition, she has set her sights set high.
“It’s really exciting – I’m always really excited,” she said. “I hoping for first place, but I’m also looking forward to meeting new friends.”
Competitors typically travel to Los Angeles for the competition but because of COVID-19 restrictions, students are traveling to regional sites to complete their testing. Blakely will make the short trip to Elizabethtown, Ky., this year.
“This year, rather than having students and families come to us, we’re taking the Braille Challenge Finals directly to them,” said Sergio Olivia, Associate Vice President for National and Youth Programs for the Braille Institute. “The digital experience we created captures the essence of the two-day event and celebration and effectively champions braille literacy.”
Blakely possesses a positive mentality and remains relentless in her efforts. She credits her mom, Rebecca Brown, for guiding her on her many journeys.
“She definitely understands that this is a big deal and it is a process that she takes very seriously,” Brown said. “Her goal is always to win – that’s just Camrynn.”
Blakely was also adamant about thanking two vision teachers who have been with her nearly every step of the way – Mrs. Joy and Ms. LeSan.
This marks the 20th year of the competition. Closing ceremonies are set for July 25 and will air on the Braille Institute’s YouTube page. They will feature the announcement of winners, guest speakers, entertainment and more.
“We couldn’t be more ecstatic to host the Braille Challenge Finals,” Olivia said. “This year we are doing everything associated with the program through the lens of our new motto which is ‘Keep Calm and Braille On.'”
