The SCPPS Special Education Department partnered with River Parishes Special Olympics to host the first SCPPS sponsored Special Olympics on April 25 in the Destrehan High School Stadium. Thirty-four students representing 10 schools competed in various track and field events in front of supporting family members, fellow students, and employees.

School Board Member Karen Boudreaux asked the school district to look into the possibility of hosting the event which led to an initial meeting with the Bayouland/River Parishes Region of Special Olympics in October. Spearheaded by IEP and Special Programs Facilitator Shaun Crochet, the idea developed into a half-day event with an opening ceremony, parade of athletes, and seven individual track and field events: 25m and 50m run, 25m assisted walk, 25m wheelchair race, standing long jump, softball throw, and tennis ball throw. In addition to the track and field events, participants and supporters had the opportunity to visit an arts & crafts station, try their hand at bowling, and have some fun with cornhole.

As the Special Olympians arrived, each was greeted by a cheering group of volunteers who lined the entrance pathway in addition to seeing well wishes on banners displayed along the stadium fence. Various school spirit groups and athletic teams were present to volunteer and show their support. “The outpouring of support, respect, and love for those 34 athletes was so evident and genuine! Seeing the smiles and pride shown by their competing classmates still gives me goosebumps today!” shared Mr. Crochet in recapping the day.

Superintendent Dr. Ken Oertling had a similar experience. “It was a morning filled with joy, pride, and an overwhelming sense of community…our community!” commented Dr. Oertling. “The energy and excitement among our students, staff, volunteers, and families were profound. Rarely am I filled with joy as much as the way I was experiencing such an extraordinary event as this one celebrating unity and inclusivity.”

According to their website, “Special Olympics is a global organization that serves athletes with intellectual disabilities working with hundreds of thousands of volunteers and coaches each year. The movement represents 3.9 million athletes in 227 national and state programs operating in 177 countries and jurisdictions.”