Elkhorn South High School (ESHS) was recently declared a Unified Champion Banner School by Special Olympics. The recognition honors schools throughout the country that have created and display an inclusive school climate by demonstrating a commitment to Unified Sports, inclusive youth leadership and whole-school engagements.
To celebrate the designation, ESHS students and staff participated in a Unified with Pride Day on May 13. The day consisted of the entire school showing their support for inclusion by wearing blue, and posters that had been created by Circle of Friends decorated the building. Additionally, a celebratory video was shared with all students and staff to showcase the honor they had earned for the community they created. To view the video, please go to: http://bit.ly/ESHSUnifiedChamps
Paige Gill, ESHS special education teacher, understands the importance of the honor after having been foundationally involved in the process required to receive the recognition. “This award is a celebration of our school and the heart of our students. It has been an honor to see the Unified programs at ESHS grow and to see true acceptance and inclusion come to life. ESHS is a special place where abilities are not a barrier to friendship,” Gill states.
According to Elkhorn Public Schools superintendent, “this recognition is a recognition of our humanity which binds us all regardless of our differences. I am incredibly proud of Elkhorn South, and encourage them always to continue on with this important work.”
For more information about Special Olympics Unified Champion Banner Schools, visit https://www.specialolympics.org/our-work/unified-champion-schools/banner-recognition-program.
