Dolphin Dash 5K participants begin their race in the Ocean Lakes student parking lot on May 17, 2025. Photo used with permission from Kaydyn Ismail.

This year’s Dolphin Dash was the most successful yet, with $7,000 raised for the Connect With A Wish nonprofit organization to support young people in foster care throughout Hampton Roads.

“To be a part of it, especially this year, was such an honor because it represented being a part of something bigger than myself,” Dolphin Dash student crew member and junior Kaydyn Ismail said.

Since the event’s origination, Latin teacher Shirley Hall was the adviser for these events. However, after her tragic passing this year, economics teacher Christina Barnhart assumed this role.

“Thanks to Barnhart and other teachers stepping up, we were able to have an incredible race that would have made Hall so proud,” Kaydyn said.

Dolphin Dash puts on two fundraising events per year, with the Winter Carnival in December and the 5K race in May.

Over 190 participants raced on the morning of May 17, 2025, and were cheered on by the student crew and step team. There was a $15 entrance fee.

“Everyone truly came together as a community,” Kaydyn said. “We owe it all to the kindness, grace and dedication that Hall demonstrated every single day.”