Colonial School District students team up for Interscholastic Games, Special Olympics

On one of the hottest days of the year, Colonial School District students grades K-12 showed their grit, determination, and team spirit during both the Interscholastic Games held on the Plymouth Whitemarsh High School baseball field and at the county-wide Special Olympics Sports Experience at Hatboro-Horsham High School.

The Interscholastic Games was organized formally for the first time this year, born out of last year’s last-minute pivot to organize something for student athletes after a double rain-out at the Special Olympics. 

“The feedback from last year was overwhelmingly positive,” said Stephanie Brennan, Life Skills Support teacher at Whitemarsh Elementary School, and one of the organizers of the Interscholastic Games. “Students and staff felt the smaller event of approximately 55 athletes from all of the elementary schools provided a greater sense of connection for everyone involved. We were able to create times and spaces for athletes to celebrate.”

So the decision was made to formalize the event for May 20. The day before, all K-3 elementary schools and Colonial Elementary School held clap-offs for their student athletes. As the athletes arrived at the ball field to compete, they were greeted with much fanfare from local police and fire representatives, as well as district office employees.  

Then the games began, with all students competing in events such as 25-meter and 50-meter dashes, the long jump, and a softball/tennis throw. The event wrapped up with the presentation of ribbons for first-, second-, and third-place winners.

Meanwhile, Life Skill students from Colonial Middle School and Plymouth Whitemarsh High School competed at Hatboro-Horsham. These students were also cheered to victory in send-off parades at their schools. They arrived ready to showcase their athletic abilities, sportsmanship, and determination while competing alongside peers from other schools.

Students participated in three events: the standing long jump, softball shot put, and the 50-meter dash. Each athlete demonstrated outstanding effort, enthusiasm, and perseverance as they competed in the various activities. The following students proudly represented the Life Skills program during the Special Olympics event:

Colonial Middle School

• Tori Eccleston
• Sadie Spause
• Emilio Lopez
• Michael Bowles

Plymouth Whitemarsh High School

• Nicole Black
• Evan Jones
• Logan Mayer
• Brayden McClendon-Green
• John McGlynn
• Kayla Nelson
• John Nicolosi
• Amani Powell
• Sophia Van Coillie

The day was filled with encouragement, excitement, and memorable moments as students cheered on one another and celebrated each achievement. Colonial School District celebrates these athletes for their hard work, positive attitudes, and representation of the school community.