News Summary
The 30th Annual Track & Field Special Olympics for Atlanta Public Schools attracted over 500 special needs students from 52 schools. Held at Lakewood Stadium, the event showcased various competitions like standing long jump and wheelchair races. Atlanta superintendent Bryan Johnson and school board chair Erika Mitchell celebrated the achievements of the participants, promoting an atmosphere of joy and encouragement. The event highlights the commitment to inclusivity and personal growth within the Atlanta Public Schools system, allowing athletes with disabilities to shine and be recognized.
Atlanta – The 30th annual Track & Field Special Olympics for Atlanta Public Schools (APS) took place on Wednesday at Lakewood Stadium, with over 500 special needs students from 52 schools participating in the event following a rain delay. This long-standing tradition has become a significant occasion for the community, showcasing the talents and abilities of athletes with disabilities.
The event featured a range of athletic competitions, including the standing long jump, 25- and 50-meter dashes, wheelchair races, and softball throws. Students entered the stadium grouped by their respective schools, and to commemorate the milestone anniversary, participants donned colorful T-shirts representing their schools. The atmosphere was vibrant, with the South Atlanta High School marching band providing musical entertainment during the opening ceremony.
Atlanta superintendent Bryan Johnson and school board chair Erika Mitchell expressed their well wishes to the participants, celebrating their achievements and encouraging them to enjoy the day. A group of students recited the Special Olympics athlete oath, which embodies the spirit of competition and perseverance, stating, “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” This reflects the ethos of the Special Olympics, which prioritizes personal growth and courage over mere victory.
Taka Hines, the special Olympics coordinator for APS, has been instrumental in organizing this event since January. Notably, the participating athletes are registered with both APS and the state, allowing them to be recognized as official Special Olympians eligible for additional state-level competitions. The planning and execution of the event involve collaboration with adaptive physical education teachers who train the athletes and help them prepare for the various competitions.
Shateena Love, the assistant superintendent of exceptional student programming, underscored the joy that the event brings to its participants, emphasizing the importance of highlighting students’ strengths and abilities. One of the young competitors, 8-year-old Justin Thompson, expressed his excitement about racing, particularly highlighting his speed. His father, Troy Thompson, noted that events like this foster inclusivity within the Atlanta Public Schools system, an aspect that is highly valued by families like theirs, who eagerly anticipate this annual celebration.
The origins of the APS Special Olympics date back to 1981 when it began as a field day for students with disabilities. Over the years, it has evolved into a sanctioned event under the umbrella of the Special Olympics, a national athletic organization dedicated to providing a platform for athletes with disabilities to compete and showcase their skills. This evolution reflects APS’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that creates opportunities for all students, particularly those who might face barriers in traditional sports settings.
In summary, the 30th annual Track & Field Special Olympics marked a significant milestone for Atlanta Public Schools and its community, celebrating the diverse abilities of its students and their achievements in a joyful and supportive atmosphere. The event continues to foster inclusivity and offers a chance for athletes with disabilities to shine, reinforcing a commitment to providing enriching experiences and opportunities for every student.
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