Ready, set, go! This past Friday, April 15th, fans cheered for athletes and fellow classmates as they watched them compete in various events at the Special Olympics. White Knoll High School was given the opportunity to host The Special Olympics, for very special athletes.

Chapin Middle School, along with many other schools in the district, attended the event to celebrate athletes with disabilities and show admiration for them despite their differences. Mrs. Parker, teacher at CMS for special needs students, expressed her excitement for this event, and fully supported her student athletes, Ariel, Jackie, and Taylor.

Every student athlete competes in various events such as races, tennis ball throw, softball throw, and shot-put. Despite the disabilities these athletes may face, they are awarded with ribbons regardless of their ranking. The sky’s the limit, and each and every athlete is capable of reaching far and beyond.

“The Special Olympics is a day dedicated to students who don’t always get celebrated. My students were celebrities at our school and in our community on the day of the Olympics. As a teacher of students with special needs, I am inspired everyday by their positive attitudes, dedication, and hard work. I believe that teaching is the most rewarding job out there, and I saw my student’s confidence soar and our school inclusive environment shine,” said Mrs. Parker, Special Needs teacher at Chapin Middle.

The Special Olympics has honored and touched many lives, and not just the lives of those competing.