Fairfield, CA - Last Friday, the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District (FSUSD) Adapted PE department, in partnership with the Special Olympics of Northern California, held its annual Middle School Special Olympics Track and Field Day.
Hosted at Fairfield High School, this heartwarming event brought together over 200 students from seven schools to celebrate inclusivity and athleticism in a supportive environment. Participating schools included B. Gale Wilson Middle School, Crystal Middle School, Grange Middle School, Green Valley Middle School, H. Glenn Richardson, Oakbrook Academy of the Arts, and David Weir Preparatory Academy.
The Special Olympics Schools Partnership Program is an education initiative that unites students with and without disabilities through sports and involvement activities. This program provides students with the knowledge, experience, and skills necessary to create and sustain school communities that promote inclusion, acceptance, and respect for all students.
During the Track and Field Day, students had the opportunity to participate in a variety of running and field events. Leadership students from Fairfield High School volunteered to assist with the event, ensuring that the day ran smoothly. Families of the participating students were invited to attend as spectators, adding to the sense of community and support. The event began with a traditional torch run, setting the stage for an exciting and inclusive day of competition and fun.
Shirley Cavasos, an Adapted Physical Education Specialist and a key organizer of the event, shared her enthusiasm about the success of the day. "It was amazing to see so many students from different schools coming together to celebrate inclusivity and sportsmanship," she said. "The joy and excitement on the faces of all the participants were truly inspiring. We're grateful for the support of the Special Olympics of Northern California and our dedicated volunteers who helped make the event a success!”
The Middle School Special Olympics Track and Field Day is just one of the many Adapted PE events held throughout the year. Other notable events include high school golf, elementary Special Olympics soccer, high school Special Olympics basketball, and the Adaptive PE prom.