Upcoming Events
YAC Youth Summit
The Youth Summit brings together student leaders from Unified Champion Schools across Idaho for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Participants connect with peers from around the state, explore inclusive leadership strategies, participate in hands-on workshops, and leave with new ideas to strengthen Unified programs in their schools and communities.
National Inclusion Week
National Inclusion Week is one of the most exciting celebrations of the year, bringing schools together to spread kindness, build friendships, and champion inclusion. Through fun daily activities, school-wide challenges, spirit days, and interactive events, students have the opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate what makes their school community stronger. It's a week dedicated to creating a culture where everyone belongs and every student feels seen, valued, and included.
Nonspeaking/Nonverbal Awareness Day
Nonverbal and Nonspeaking Awareness Day is an opportunity to celebrate the many ways people communicate beyond spoken words. Through interactive activities, educational resources, and student engagement opportunities, schools can build greater understanding, foster empathy, and highlight the strengths, talents, and voices of individuals who communicate in different ways. This day encourages students to recognize that communication comes in many forms and that every voice deserves to be heard and valued.
Bully Prevention Awareness Day
Bullying Prevention Awareness Day challenges students to be leaders in creating positive school communities. Through team activities, student pledges, peer advocacy, and school-wide campaigns, participants learn how small actions can make a big difference. The day focuses on building confidence, encouraging students to speak up for others, and fostering an environment where respect and kindness become the standard.
Unity Day
Unity Day is a powerful opportunity for students to come together and show that kindness, acceptance, and support matter. By wearing orange, participating in school-wide activities, and sharing messages of encouragement, students send a visible reminder that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and connected. It is a day that highlights the strength of standing together and the impact a united school community can have on every student.
World Kindness Day
World Kindness Day celebrates the simple actions that can make a lasting difference in someone's day. Through acts of generosity, gratitude, and compassion, students are encouraged to spread positivity throughout their school and community. Whether it's helping a classmate, recognizing a teacher, or sharing words of encouragement, this day reminds us that kindness has the power to inspire, connect, and create meaningful change.
International Person with Disabilities Day
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a celebration of the achievements, contributions, and leadership of people with disabilities around the world. This day encourages students to learn from one another, challenge misconceptions, and recognize the value that diverse perspectives bring to our schools and communities. Through education, storytelling, and meaningful engagement, participants gain a deeper understanding of disability and the importance of creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.
National Mentoring Month
National Mentoring Month highlights the power of relationships that help young people grow into confident leaders. Across Idaho's Unified Champion Schools, students with and without intellectual disabilities mentor, support, and learn from one another through Unified Sports, Youth Activation Committees, and school-wide leadership opportunities. These connections build confidence, strengthen friendships, and help create the next generation of leaders who are committed to inclusion both in their schools and communities.
Random Acts of Kindness Week
Random Acts of Kindness Week encourages students to discover how small actions can create a big impact. Throughout the week, schools can participate in kindness challenges, recognize peers and staff, and look for opportunities to brighten someone's day. Whether it's a thoughtful note, a helping hand, or an unexpected act of generosity, this celebration reminds students that kindness is contagious and has the power to strengthen their entire school community.
Developmental Disability Awareness Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is a time to celebrate the talents, achievements, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities while promoting greater understanding and opportunity for all. Throughout the month, students can explore stories of leadership, friendship, athletics, and advocacy that challenge stereotypes and showcase what is possible when everyone has the chance to participate, contribute, and succeed. It is an opportunity to recognize ability, amplify voices, and build communities where every person can thrive.
Spread the Word Day
Spread the Word Day invites students to take action and become champions for inclusion in their schools and communities. Through pledges, awareness campaigns, classroom discussions, and student-led activities, participants encourage others to choose respect, create opportunities for connection, and make inclusion a daily practice. It's a day focused on turning words into action and inspiring lasting change that extends far beyond a single event.
Autism Awareness Month
Autism Awareness Month is an opportunity to celebrate the unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum. Throughout the month, schools can engage in activities that promote understanding, encourage meaningful connections, and highlight the many ways autistic individuals contribute to their classrooms and communities. By learning from one another and embracing different ways of thinking, communicating, and experiencing the world, students help create more welcoming and supportive environments for everyone.