统一地滚球: A Journey of Unity and Joy
统一地滚球: A Journey of Unity and Joy
Written by:威廉. 马歇尔, 负责人, Penn Cambria School District and an adjunct for SFU's Department of Graduate Education in the 负责人/Letter of Eligibility program
作为 Penn Cambria School District, I have witnessed countless moments of triumph, joy, and unity within our school community. One particular experience stands out, a story that unfolded during the 2019-2020 school year – the introduction of 统一地滚球 to Penn Cambria.
It all began for me at the Giant Center in Hershey during the 2019 state basketball championships. Little did I know that the Thursday morning prior to the basketball action would open my eyes to something truly special. It was the Bocce Ball championships, an event that showcased the power of unity and inclusion.
统一地滚球, a program offered and funded through the 美国特奥会, brought together a co-ed team of students from grades 9-12. What makes this program extraordinary is its equal composition of Special Olympics-eligible students and those without intellectual disabilities.
的 spark for bringing 统一地滚球 to Penn Cambria ignited within me that day at the Giant Center. Witnessing the unity and 多样性 among competitors, the joy radiating from students as they competed and collaborated as a team – it was an impactful experience. 学生部分, 父母, and family members stood united in their support for every student on the court.
Determined to bring this experience to our students, we partnered with 欧宝体育app入口's Rural Education Alliance for Leaders (真正的) Institute to offer students the chance to compete in a large gym setting. As an executive committee member with 真正的, I knew a partnership of this kind made the perfect synergy. Picture this: six bocce courts on the gym floor at Altoona, with 96 students competing simultaneously. Our goal extended beyond the competition – we aimed to provide these students with an opportunity to interact with peers from other schools and acclimate them to the big gym setting.
Our vision is crystal clear. We want these students to thrive, not just on the court but also in life. Qualifying for the Bocce Ball Championships at the Giant Center on Thursday, 3月21日, 2024, is a dream we hope each team realizes. 到那时, these students will have gained invaluable experience in that setting, helping to ensure they won't be overwhelmed by the 'big time' atmosphere.
的 mission and goals of the Special Olympics resonate deeply with SFU/真正的 and the ethos of Penn Cambria High School. This program champions unity and 多样性, reshaping the climate and culture within the halls of each building. 的 students participating in 统一地滚球 are no longer mere spectators; they are integral parts of something larger than themselves.
走进球场, supported by their families, 朋友, 同学们, these athletes experience a sense of pride that transcends mere victory. Winning isn't their primary focus – being part of a school endeavor previously enjoyed only as fans means the world to them. Banners in the cafeteria on game day and individual posters in our gym now celebrate them, just like any other student-athlete.
统一地滚球 has become a symbol of unity, transforming lives and fostering a sense of belonging at Penn Cambria. As we embark on this journey together, I am humbled and inspired by the boundless joy and camaraderie that this program has brought to our community. 的 court is not just a playing field; it is a story of unity, 多样性, 和骄傲, which will leave a lasting mark on the hearts of everyone involved.
关于 the Upcoming Tournament
的 欧宝体育app入口/真正的 Bocce Ball Tournament will be held on Saturday, Feb 3 at Altoona High School. Anyone interested in learning more about the tournament can email Bill at marshaww@pcam.org
关于 the 真正的 Institute
的 Rural Education Alliance for Leadership (真正的) Institute is designed to help local communities and educational agencies come together in efforts to support the needs of rural schools.