DOWNINGTOWN, PA — The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) is celebrating an extraordinary milestone achieved by Ansh Gandhi, a 12th-grade student at the Downingtown Area School District’s STEM Academy. Gandhi, who is visually impaired, has qualified for the prestigious DECA National Competition, a feat that underscores his determination and academic excellence.
Gandhi advanced to the national stage after competing against 3,700 other high school students at the Pennsylvania state-level DECA competition. His success is even more remarkable because he accomplished it using braille, a skill he began mastering just one year ago.
Through perseverance and the support of the CCIU’s Vision Support program, Gandhi has gained proficiency in Unified English Braille and Nemeth Code, honed advanced screen reading skills, and become adept at using refreshable braille displays. During the competition, he skillfully navigated the challenges using his Braille Sense 6 Bluetooth device connected to a laptop, demonstrating remarkable adaptability and innovation.
“Ansh’s embodiment of innovation, persistence, and excellence perfectly reflects the Chester County Intermediate Unit’s commitment to supporting students in overcoming barriers and achieving their full potential,” said Dr. George F. Fiore, CCIU executive director. “We are so very proud of Ansh!”
The DECA competition is a career-focused event that prepares students for fields such as marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Gandhi is the only blind participant in this year’s event, making his achievement particularly groundbreaking. His success highlights the inclusive educational practices championed by the CCIU.
Gandhi’s instructors and mentors—Amy LoSchiavo and Michaela Halesey, Teachers of the Visually Impaired, along with Kris Ohlinger, Orientation and Mobility Specialist—have played a critical role in supporting his growth and helping him reach this exceptional point in his academic journey.
Gandhi’s achievement not only reflects his diligence and resilience but also serves as an inspiring example of how tailored education programs can help students thrive. His participation in the upcoming national competition offers an opportunity to showcase his hard-earned skills on a larger stage, paving the way for future successes for him and others in similar circumstances.
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