The Best of the LEST
by Kristen Okabayashi, Hope Principal
LEST stands for the Lutheran Elementary Schools Tournament, which occurred in mid February in Tacoma. This year’s tournament was truly outstanding, filled with energy, school spirit, and success. I was incredibly proud of how our students represented Hope and worked hard to share the gifts God has given them.
Of all the favorite moments from LEST 2026; here are my top three highlights:
- Dance Team Performance – Led by coach and parent Alissa Moor, our dance team members performed a graceful and beautiful routine that moved me to tears. I am amazed by the talent of our middle school dancers. The judges were equally impressed, awarding the team first place.
- Robotics Team Achievement – Under the guidance of coaches and parents Sean Gill and Chatham Curry, our robotics team showcased their robot, MONSTERKITTY, successfully competing in the sumobot competition. The team has steadily improved its LEST ranking in recent years and earned second place this year.
- Boys Basketball Championship – Our boys basketball team captured the championship title, a remarkable accomplishment. An especially meaningful story emerged on the coaching staff led by longtime volunteer, Scott Okabayashi. The Hope boys team last won the LEST title 39 years ago in 1987, coached by former Hope teacher/principal Jim Knittel. On Scott’s coaching staff this year is Hope alumnus James Orellana Guzman, the grandson of Coach Knittel.
Thank you to all of our teachers, parents, and volunteers who coached, supported, and helped make LEST possible this year. It was a memorable season for our students and community. Go Eagles!
Photo credit: Richard Figgins
