Megan Hale hasn’t let the lack of sight keep her from doing something she loves – fishing with her grandfather. In fact, the West Sand Lake Elementary student invented a special fishing pole that led to statewide recognition.
In fall 2010, when fourth graders at West Sand Lake were asked to participate in the New York State Invention Convention, Hale immediately thought of fishing. As part of the contest, she had to write about an invention that solved a problem.
Hale’s proposal for a visually-impaired fishing pole turned out to be an award-winning solution. She was one of only 100 students invited to create a working model of their concept. Later, at a ceremony held at the Schenectady Museum, Hale was named one of the top 25 young inventors in the state.
Her winning entry was the result of months of work at home and with Questar III itinerant teacher Candi Ansel to write about the project using Braille.
In September 2011, Megan and her mom were invited to speak at Questar III’s opening day program for staff. They were given a standing applause for their words of encouragement and appreciation.