Mead High School will be recognized as a Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion School for its dedication to offering inclusive sports and activities for both students with and without disabilities. The banner presentation will take place on Thursday, January 25, during halftime at the boys’ basketball game. The game begins at 7:00 pm. 

Recognition as a National Banner School is the highest honor Special Olympics affords to schools participating in the Unified Champion Schools Program. Mead High School is among 205 schools across the country, and one of eight in Colorado, selected for the 2023 Class of National Banner Unified Champion Schools. 

“We are incredibly proud to be recognized as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School for the second time,” said Principal Brian Young. “This honor is a reflection of the heart and soul of our school community, where inclusivity, diversity, and the unique strengths of each and every student are celebrated.”

To achieve this recognition, schools must demonstrate commitment to inclusion by meeting 10 standards of excellence established by the Special Olympics Organization. These standards require schools to offer Unified sports programs, where students with and without disabilities train and compete as teammates. They also must provide opportunities for inclusive youth leadership and promote school-wide engagement to create an accepting and inclusive school environment. 

Additionally, Banner Unified Champion Schools must have a plan in place to sustain these activities into the future. To ensure this sustainability, schools are required to reapply for banner status every four years. This is the second time Mead has received recognition for its commitment to inclusivity and fostering a Unified Champion School environment. They were initially designated in 2019.

A variety of Unified activities and programs are offered at Mead including track, basketball, bowling, Unified PE, and percussion. The school also has a Best Buddies Club where students with and without disabilities socialize, share interests, and participate in activities together. “I am thrilled to see the impact of our inclusive sports programs and activities at Mead High School,” said Special Education Teacher Amber Vanzant. “This recognition reaffirms our school’s dedication to providing a wide variety of opportunities for students with and without disabilities to come together, compete, and form lasting friendships.”