Unified Champion Schools
The Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools (UCS) program promotes a socially inclusive school climate where acceptance, respect, and human dignity for all students is the norm. A Unified Champion School equitably supports students through education and sports-based strategy powered by engaged youth that increases athletic and leadership opportunities for every student to contribute. In Unified Champion Schools, young people of all abilities can be inclusive leaders and athletes engaging their entire school community in creating an environment where every student feels challenged, supported and connected.
What Makes A Unified Champions School
Inclusive Sports- The Unified Sports® programs including Interscholastic Unified Sports, Unified PE or Unified Intramural, Special Olympics Unified Sports and Special Olympics Young Athletes.
Youth Leadership- Students with and without intellectual disabilities working together to lead and plan advocacy, awareness, and other Special Olympics and related inclusive activities throughout the school year.
Whole School Engagement- Awareness and education activities that promote inclusion and reach the majority of the school population. Examples include such things as Spread the Word to End the Word (RWord) Campaigns, Pep Rallies or “Fans in the Stands” for Unified Sports teams, Choose to Include Campaigns or student fundraising.
UMASS Study
A University Massachusetts study indicates the Unified Champion Schools program has measurable positive outcomes for the entire campus.