Ocean View trustees honor Surf City Optimist Club winners; students deliver speeches on belonging
April 29, 2026 | Ocean View School District, School Districts, California
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The Ocean View School District board used its April 28 meeting to celebrate student achievements from the Surf City Optimist Club partnership, honoring Pinewood Derby and essay contest winners and inviting district finalists to deliver oratorical speeches.
Rashidita Gates, the district director of teaching and learning, thanked Optimist Club volunteers and corporate partners including Toyota of Huntington Beach for hosting the Pinewood Derby final and supporting student activities. She introduced winners in three grade brackets and invited principals and families for photographs.
Three student finalists delivered oratorical speeches on 'the moment I realized I belonged.' Third-place speaker Yara Deers described finding confidence and being heard: "Belonging doesn't come from being the loudest...It comes from being seen and still accepted." Sixth‑grader Nathan Vu reflected on loneliness and the steps he took to connect with peers. First‑place winner Zoe Kopmian recounted overcoming teasing, joining new activities in middle school and growing into leadership roles; she told the board that community "is the place where you don't have to pretend, where your voice has value and where you're allowed to grow out loud."
Trustees praised the students, thanked volunteers, and invited winners and school principals for group photos.
Why it matters: The recognitions showcased district partnerships that provide enrichment and community-building opportunities for students and families.
Rashidita Gates, the district director of teaching and learning, thanked Optimist Club volunteers and corporate partners including Toyota of Huntington Beach for hosting the Pinewood Derby final and supporting student activities. She introduced winners in three grade brackets and invited principals and families for photographs.
Three student finalists delivered oratorical speeches on 'the moment I realized I belonged.' Third-place speaker Yara Deers described finding confidence and being heard: "Belonging doesn't come from being the loudest...It comes from being seen and still accepted." Sixth‑grader Nathan Vu reflected on loneliness and the steps he took to connect with peers. First‑place winner Zoe Kopmian recounted overcoming teasing, joining new activities in middle school and growing into leadership roles; she told the board that community "is the place where you don't have to pretend, where your voice has value and where you're allowed to grow out loud."
Trustees praised the students, thanked volunteers, and invited winners and school principals for group photos.
Why it matters: The recognitions showcased district partnerships that provide enrichment and community-building opportunities for students and families.
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