Unified Champions

Prerequisites: Application required. Grades 10-12

Credit: 1

Course description: Unified Champions PE is associated with Unified Champions Schools (UCS) - a unique program through Special Olympics, Inc., that promotes acceptance and inclusion among students with and without intellectual disabilities. Set in a fun, interactive, Unified environment, participants engage in advocacy, leadership, fitness, and sports opportunities – together. UCS is a student-driven program; the students will form a Unified Youth Leadership Team (with equal numbers of athletes and partners) whose members consider activity options and recruit new and existing participants to join in planning and hosting events and activities. The constant theme of UCS is inclusion, so students of varying abilities participate in every opportunity as peers and equals, with the goal of forming true friendships and utilizing the unique talents and abilities of each person. Class time will include both lessons and instruction in topics such as inclusion, awareness, advocacy, as well as fitness and sport opportunities. Unified Partners are required to create and lead one event for Mighty Tiger Games that occurs in the Spring semester (when applicable). Some participation outside of the school day is encouraged - for example, participation in a Special Olympics event such as bowling, basketball, or track. Community service hours can be counted towards the Principal’s Volunteer Service Award. Partners who have completed at least two semesters in the Unified Champions PE or fulfill at least twenty hours of volunteering in a Special Olympics event will receive an honor’s cord at graduation.