Delaware introduces Unified Schools Special Olympics program for students
Delaware Elementary School is knocking down pins and barriers with its new Unified Champion Schools bowling program.
Unified Champion Schools is a Special Olympics sports program that aims to build inclusive school communities for students of all abilities.
As part of the program, Delaware’s fourth- and fifth-grade student council members partnered with students of different abilities to learn the basics of bowling. The program included four weeks of bowling practices, followed by a Family Bowling night on April 29 to cap off their inaugural season.
“I knew of the Unified Schools program and knew that it was an excellent program, and I wanted to bring it to Delaware,” said communication and social skills teacher Caitlyn Foutch. "I knew it was perfect for this school. We have six self-contained classrooms, so we have a larger population of students who fit into that Special Olympics program.”
The program gives students a chance to engage with one another in a safe and inclusive environment, allowing relationships to grow and friendships to build.
“Watching the relationship between these kiddos has been amazing,” Foutch said. "They learn things about each other and how they operate with zero judgment. They are starting to understand how everyone operates - it’s different, but it’s not bad.”
The opportunity to meet and connect with peers outside their usual circles has made a lasting impact.
“It’s really fun,” says fifth-grader Onyx Harkins. “It’s a little time that you get to spend with other people you normally wouldn’t see. Now, I still talk to him a lot, and I see him during recess.”
Delaware is the first SPS school to introduce a Unified Champion Schools program.
“My partner is Nick, and he is in Kindergarten. He’s really nice, and he’s shy, but once you get to know him, he’s really fun,” says Aubrey Richardson, a fourth grader in the program. “My favorite part about it is probably getting to bowl with my partner and just hanging out with him.”
At the Family Bowling Night on April 29, the Delaware community came together to cheer on the participants as they competed in a bowling tournament and enjoyed concessions.
“I would love to get some other schools starting their own programs,” said Foutch. “We could do a longer season, a few practices and a tournament with another school, maybe do an end-of-the-year event at a bowling alley. There are so many different options available.”