Several Cuyahoga Heights High School students participated in Inclusive Sports Day on April 23 at Hawken Upper School. The event is designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for students enrolled in special education programs to participate in sports, regardless of their abilities and backgrounds.
Student athletes representing Orange, Hawken, Brooklyn, and other area schools engaged in football and kickball activities. Volunteers, including several Hawken students, assisted in managing the sporting events and ensuring a supportive environment for all participants. The students practiced kicking, catching, ladder drills, and even victory dances. All of the contests were tailored to accommodate diverse abilities. The day emphasized collaboration with students of varying skill levels working together in team events, while aiming to foster a sense of community and highlighting the importance of inclusive physical education.
“We were proud to participate in such an exciting and positive event,” said their teacher, Intervention Specialist Jena Amato. “With every drill, game, and cheer, our students demonstrated courage, joy, and the true spirit of inclusion. They felt included, seen, supported, and proud of their abilities as they took part in every event with a smile. Their enthusiasm and effort reminded everyone that sports are for all, and that the power of participation goes far beyond competition.”
Pictured from left to right: Dominic Smallwood, Marisa Drobnick, Skye Sutyak, Sal Grissman, and Hans Luenger.
