District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) proudly marked the 20th anniversary of its much-loved Special Olympics event on June 10th at Welland Centennial Secondary School. What began two decades ago as a celebration of athleticism and inclusion has grown into a powerful tradition of friendship, teamwork and student-led support.
This year’s milestone event brought together students from more than 90 elementary and secondary schools for a fun-filled day of cheering, connection and friendly competition. Events such as the softball throw, javelin, long jump, frisbee throw, bean bag toss and track races offered students of all abilities the opportunity to shine and be celebrated for their unique strengths and achievements.
“In the 20 years since we first began, this event has become so much more than a track and field day,” said Bryn Keyes, Elementary Teacher, Parnall Public School, DSBN Special Olympics coordinator and co-founder. “It’s about acceptance, belonging and joy and it’s driven by the passion of our students and staff who make this such a meaningful experience year after year.”
In keeping with tradition, the day began with the ever-popular parade of athletes, led by bucket drummers from Ferndale and Pine Grove Public Schools. Several DSBN students played important roles in the opening ceremonies; O Canada was beautifully sung by a student from Burleigh Hill Public School while siblings from Ferndale Public School signed the national anthem and a Pine Grove student delivered the Land Acknowledgment. A student from Fitch Street Public School recited the Special Olympics oath, setting an inspiring tone for the day and the torch was carried by a student from Niagara Children’s Centre, accompanied by his sibling.
This year’s event also highlighted the incredible spirit of students supporting students, with even more opportunities for collaboration and creativity.
“We were wowed by the students in St. Catharines Collegiate Secondary School’s manufacturing class who designed and built an adaptive device to help our torchbearer carry the torch using his walker,” said Andy Dermatas, Elementary Teacher at Pine Grove Public School, DSBN Special Olympics co-founder and long-time coordinator. “And we’re so thankful to the talented Sir Winston Churchill class who helped bring this year’s visual identity to life. Together, their efforts demonstrated that inclusion and belonging are not only values we talk about, they’re also principles we live by every day.”
As always, the energy throughout the day was both electric and contagious. Students enthusiastically participated in their favourite activities, cheered each other on, and celebrated every accomplishment, big and small. Families, staff, and volunteers lined the field offering support, encouragement, and plenty of high-fives. Many wore specially designed t-shirts featuring artwork by DSBN student artists, adding to the day’s community spirit.
“Celebrating 20 years of this event is a true testament to the vision, dedication, and heart of the staff and volunteers who brought it to life and have continued to nurture it every year since,” said Kelly Pisek, Director of Education. “We’re incredibly proud of what this has become, and we look forward to continuing to celebrate student ability, inclusion, and connection at this wonderful event.”
Paul Ferrara, Grade 7/8 Teacher, Pine Grove Public School and a member of the Special Olympics Committee summed up the amazing event perfectly sharing, “A heartfelt thank you to every organizer, volunteer, staff member and student who helped make this incredible event possible. Your enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment made this milestone celebration one of true community, connection and belonging.”