What is a Unified Champion School?

The Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools program is aimed at promoting social inclusion through intentionally planned and implemented activities affecting systems-wide change. With sports as the foundation, the three-component model offers a unique combination of effective activities that equip young people with tools and training to create sports, classroom, and school climates of acceptance. These are school climates where students with disabilities feel welcome and are routinely included in and feel a part of, all activities, opportunities, and functions.

This is accomplished by implementing inclusive sports, inclusive youth leadership opportunities, and whole-school engagement.