In this episode of Learning in Lake Oswego, we shine a spotlight on Unified Sports, a Special Olympics program that brings high school students with and without disabilities together on the same team. Lake Oswego Learning Specialist Erin Cealey, who serves as the program coordinator, and Unified Sports athlete Amaya Edgar share their personal experiences and discuss how the program actively fosters inclusivity and diversity. Additionally, we provide information about upcoming opportunities to celebrate Black History Month, Lunar New Year, and Respect Week in our learning community.
Special Olympics Unified Sports
Polar Plunge LO Unified Sports
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Erin Cealey, Unified Sports Coordinator and Learning Specialist, LOSD
Amaya Edgar, Unified Sports Partner Athlete, and Student, Lake Oswego High School
Welcome to Learning in Lake Oswego, a podcast providing educational insights for an engaged community. Lake Oswego School District Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Schiele will discuss what's important to our learning community. She'll be joined by experts examining various topics, answering important questions, and sharing upcoming events and activities you won't want to miss.
And now, it's your host.
Welcome to the seventh episode of Learning in Lake Oswego. I'm your host, Mary Kay Larson, joined by our superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Scheele, and two inspiring guests from our Unified Sports Program. Today, we're going to be talking to them about Unified Sports, a Special Olympics program that enriches our schools.
This program exemplifies our commitment to inclusivity and diversity, fostering a sense of belonging within our learning community. And we'll also discuss how we're celebrating Black History Month and Lunar New Year. There's a lot to talk about. Let's get started, Jen. Thanks, Mary Kay. Our Unified Sports Program, spearheaded by Learning Specialist Aaron Seely at Lake Oswego High School, is a source of pride for our learning community.
Now thriving in its Third year, it's wonderful to see its positive impact growing. Also with us is one of the program's partner athletes, Amaya Edgar. I so enjoyed attending the Unified Sports end of year banquet, and I was so touched by what Amaya said about each of his teammates. Welcome Aaron and Amaya.
Hey, thanks for being here. Erin, let's start with you. Let's start by telling us about your background in education and your positions here in Lake Oswego School District. Sure. Yeah. So I have been in education for the last eight years. I started in Illinois and then I moved to Oregon in 2020. for the last four years and have had great, great transitions through each of my roles that I've been able to establish here in the district.
And with this new program role being the Unified Sports Program Coordinator. And what does the Special Olympics and the Unified Sports Program mean to our schools and our community? Well, I think as Mary Kay mentioned in the beginning of our intro here, it meets our district motto and our district piece of inclusion because it provides a sense of community for our students.
We as a unified sports program, not only focus on the people with disabilities, but we also include all of our peers and treat everyone as equals out on the court. And that's the coolest thing about the whole thing is that people. With and without disabilities are playing on the same field at the same time and the same competitive nature as you would in a varsity level game.
So our students really embrace that and have taken it to the next level and we've seen it in various aspects of different sports and this year we introduced soccer for the first time in our program. Previous fall sports have been bocce ball and we've always done basketball and last year we even started track and field.
I love it. So what inspired you to lead this program and bring this to Lake Oswego? You know, I have had a passion for this community for the longest time. I've been working with Special Olympics across the nation and I was part of World Games volunteer five years ago and that I was able to make an impact even small when.
Not everyone always gets a chance to see it. So, through those 20 years of Special Olympics, seeing basketball, track and field, swimming, I've been to state games and national games and world games and so I really wanted to take my passion and put it in with a purpose for our district, to be able to provide new opportunities and new ideas that parents and families may not always see for their students, and that anything is possible.
Yeah, that's so awesome. Thank you, Maya. I just want a quick say and I know I said this at the beginning. I heard you talk about your fellow students at the banquet and I came back to central office and I was telling Mary Kay and others. I was actually crying because it was so beautiful and I so I'm so happy that you're able to join us today.
Can you tell us a little bit about your journey to becoming a partner in unified sports and like what inspired you to participate? Yeah. Thank you so much. So I'm a junior this year, but I've been volunteering in the special education program since seventh grade. And I've always been looking for more opportunities to continue my education and experience.
And then I was told about Unified during my sophomore year in the spring and just immediately signed up for track. And this year I was part of the soccer team and I'm now on the basketball team and it's just one of my favorite things. That is so awesome. I just absolutely love that. Aaron, can you kind of describe a typical season in the program?
Like what activities do the athletes do? What do they engage in? What do practices look like? What do games look like? That whole thing. Sure, yeah, yeah. So we follow the Special Olympics protocols for sports, specifically within the field of Oregon. So all of our students have to be marked with an athlete physical, just like you would for a typical sport.
And then our peer mentors are actually going through volunteer training to make sure that they are respectful and inclusive to the students on the court, because it's not only about one set of students, it's about all students. And so we want to make sure that everyone has the same set of boundaries and expectations as we move forward.
So that's how we kind of start our season to make sure that everyone knows those expectations, how we work with students. You know, if you have questions, ask a coach because our coaches work day in and day out with these students. And so we kind of know what, what works for them and what doesn't work for them, which is a benefit of that.
But then we also get to see those large jumps that they get to get through throughout the season and do things that they've never would have done before. And so typically our seasons are six weeks long and they have practices two times a week. And then this season, the state of Oregon special Olympics department has established a four game rule for each season.
So our athletic Director Chris Coleman worked with others, athletic directors across the state to then establish what games work and put us into a game schedule. So soccer, we had four games, two home and two away in basketball. We'll have two games, two home and two away. And then in track season, it's a new.
Sport for Special Olympics here in the state. But last year it culminated with us running a relay down at State Games in Eugene. And so, we're kind of up in the air as to what, what would happen. But, Lake Oswego actually hosted a track and field invitational last spring. And so, we're hoping to bring that back again.
Because not only is it about practice, but it's also about that competitive nature and being able to verse other schools and have that team morale and team camaraderie. But then during our typical practice, we really focus on skills and abilities. And then we also work on the practical field of field of play.
And so you might see us start with some dynamic stretches and just making sure that all students are healthy and being able to participate throughout the practice. And then we'll get into like some skill movements, skill building, or what's the key idea for the day. And then Students will get out there and scrimmage.
So it just depends on what we need, or what skills we see students have, and coaches plan and develop practice plans, just like we would in the classroom. Here's our starting place, and here's where we need to go. Yeah, and I was actually at that Invitational last year, and I think one of the most fun parts about the Track and Field Invitational was how the crowd was cheering on all the students.
And so I think that was so fun to have other students and other adults cheering for you. So I think that was an amazing part of it. Amaya, how has this program shaped your perspective on inclusivity and teamwork? This program has like changed how I view Inclusivity and teamwork. I used to think of it as just sort of smiling at people in the hallway and being kind and welcoming.
And while those things are part of inclusivity, they're sort of passive actions. And Unified has taught me that inclusivity and teamwork is a conscious decision that we should make every day when we wake up. And it's not always easy, but it's very rewarding to everyone. Beautiful. Erin, has there been challenges to implementing this program and how have you tackled those?
Sure. I mean, with every startup of any program, there's always going to be some challenges and like being with the program for so long, I could like foresee some of the but I would say probably one of our biggest challenges has been fundraising and funding for our programs. This is our third year in our program, which is fantastic and Special Olympics will always sponsor the first season of every sport that you do with equipment or uniforms or things like that.
In order to get practices going, but after that it's up to the schools to be able to provide that funding to keep it going. And so, we've been lucky enough that we've had some fundraisers kids have worked concession stands, and they've, last year they participated in a polar plunge. We've had some personal donations because of the impact of our program.
That allows us to keep going, but again, that funding part is probably the hardest part because we have the people and we have the passion for it, but it's making sure that that passion can be met to meet the full experience of what students deserve. And so when you see our students out on the court or out on the field, you'll see them with a number on their back with their LO unified symbol because those uniforms have been designed specifically for them.
And so. Having that chance to be able to represent that, not only that piece, but to be able to have the pride to put the uniform back on every time for a game or a competition. That's the true part of it all. They're a team at that point. Yeah, fundraising is always difficult. And I know last year you did a fundraiser.
Maybe it was this fall even where there were sweatshirts sold because I know I bought one so I can't wait to wear mine to the basketball game. Erin, could you kind of share some insights into the program's dynamics between the partners and then the athletes and kind of what does that mean? Well, I think one thing to keep in mind is that everyone that's on our team, or everyone that chooses to participate, sees that need for inclusion and how it can be represented throughout, not only on the field of play, but out in the classroom, out in the hallways, out in our community.
And so it's inspiring this new generation of people to really see the true potential of everyone. Not only of our students with disabilities, but those students that choose to act and be a peer within our programs. I think it's teaching them some values that may not always be seen all the time.
Respect, inclusion, having the heart and tenacity in order to keep going. Teamwork. I mean, the vocabulary list can be so large and that we hope that not only is it being transpired from coaches into our players, but then from our players into the community and the people that are out in the crowd. So yeah, it's, it's just a starting point.
That's great and I know Amaya loves being part of this program as he said and I can see it in his face and his eyes when he's talking about it. Amaya, can you share a standout experience that you've had in the last, you know, nine months or so being in this program? Absolutely. The first thing that comes to mind is our regional soccer competition in late October.
So it was an amazing experience that I'm like incredibly proud and grateful to have been able to participate in. We showed up to the regional competition at Wilsonville High School with Our hearts in the right place and we were just so enthusiastic and like ready to be there. And our team was working together and being kind to not only each other, but to every team and referee as well.
We were first place in that tournament, which was a wonderful feeling and an amazing accomplishment. But I think what truly matters and something that makes me really happy is that our team was awarded the sportsmanship award. So. That means so much more to me than first place because it means that we truly embodied what unified is all about and how every team should feel as accomplished.
On the field and at the end of the day, we're all part of a larger community and we all had unified values in our heart and lived up to the Special Olympics motto of let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. See, that is amazing. I love that. And I know you talked a little bit about that at that banquet and congratulations to you and the team for getting that award.
Aaron, back to you. What kind of memorable moments have you had or success stories that particularly resonated with you? Oh my goodness, there's been so many, it's hard to like narrow it down to just a few. I think back to like our first year and we started our fall season of Bocce, and I had students that just wanted to participate.
And so that was even powerful in itself, because we didn't know where this program could land or take off from. But having that opportunity for them to be a part of something that was different, and after school, and again, that competitive nature that isn't always an opportunity for all, was really important to me.
Between that, and like, making sure that that sport experience Our kids got their pictures taken like they would for their own basketball photos. They had a team photo taken. We had team shirts. And I think back to that same day Amaya, when we were at that regional tournament. And we were in the break.
In between where we actually had to go into extended goals in order to win that game and walk away as those champions. And at that time, our kids just came together in a circle and partied out and just jammed out so that we could have all the team spirit in order to get. Get the win. And so that in itself was cool.
Our first respect week last year and how we had the whole school community come together throughout our five days of inclusion to make sure that, you know, what we do is represented and accepted and not only accepted, but it's respected. So that was cool too. Yeah, that, that respect assembly, all school assembly in the gym where the kids were playing basketball against each other and people were roaring in the stands.
It was so fun. I. Loved that. Can't wait to have that happen again this year. So, and this kind of goes to this question, Erin how does this unified sports program impact the wider school culture? Well, I think not only are we looking at students as learners within the classroom, but we're looking for those students and learners in our community and what are they going to do next?
Because we always look for that transition from education into application of real life. And so being able to have that experience from practice to play and from play and to competition and then to be able to say, I'm coming back for another season. I'm going to try something new. And so that's kind of embracing our district's piece of like, you can always keep learning.
And so. That in itself I think is really important. I totally agree. Amaya, what lessons from the program do you apply in other aspects of your life or school? Definitely to realize that everyone has different abilities and everyone has different things that they need. And then, I've learned to be more patient with other people and myself and rather than becoming frustrated when mistakes are made by my teammates or myself, like realizing that everyone's learning and everyone's trying something new.
And then not only that, but my confidence has improved too and I'm able to step into new situations more confidently now because meeting new people and trying new drills and sports that I don't usually play has made it easier for me to step into any new situation, whether that's participating in class, whether that's in my job or my everyday life, I'm more open to new things.
That's great. Confidence builders. And if you don't mind, if I tag in on that, just like as a perspective person seeing these teammates and seeing them play on the field, I have seen Amaya become more of an advocate, not only for himself, but for our whole community. And so being able to make sure that his voice is heard.
It's so important. And so just being able to have that chance and that opportunity, not only for himself, but for his teammates and for our community as a whole is really important. Yes, that's exactly what we want for all of our students to find their voice and use it. So that's fantastic. So this one, this question is actually going to be for both of you.
What advice would you give to students who are considering joining the Unified Sports Program? I'd say I talk about Unified a lot. With my friends, with other peers, and sometimes the response that I get is that they're afraid of judgment from their peers because most high schoolers are, including myself, or they're not very good at sports, and I'd say that so much of being a partner is showing up and trying your best, and maybe someone has never had any experience with special education or sports.
That's okay. No one is expecting anyone to be perfect, and we're all here and learning together. I'd say the main thing is that it's such a safe environment to try new things. Great advice, Erin. You know, one thing that I, as I look back and like how we see this program moving forward, I always look at just.
Just being willing to give it a try. Get out there on the court, get out on the field, see who we are, maybe embrace, embrace it for a day or two and see where it takes you from there because the possibilities are endless but you just have to be willing to try. And that support is there in that safe environment from our coaches to our players to our participants and our crowd members.
Once you're there and truly embracing the whole experience, it can be monumental. The fear of failure. isn't really present and unified because we're all trying new things and we're all lifting each other up. Fantastic. I really appreciate that. That is such a nice sentiment for everyone to hear out there that this is a safe place for everyone to try new things and learn.
That's exactly what a school setting should be about. You know, and I know the annual Polar Plunge, you kind of mentioned it a little bit earlier as a fundraiser. It's coming up. I know I was invited. I know I'm, I'm cold right now in my clothes, so there's absolutely no way I could jump in the river. I know our executive director of student services, Scott Shinerly, always likes to participate in that.
But what can you tell me about that event and then how does it support our unified teams? So I'm going to hop in here because I know Maya's joining in for the first time taking the plunge with us. And we're hoping that our plunge team gets bigger and better as we keep going on. But that puller plunge piece is really important for us and there's a couple different ways that you can participate that day.
There's a 5k race, so if you're not feeling like you want to get cold, you get out there and run. And there's medals and awards. There's a costume contest. to get people inspired to keep plunging all day. And I'm not asking for the 24 hour plunge. I'm just asking for a one time, maybe five minutes at most, getting in that cold Willamette River.
But through that, once our school, there's a partnership with Special Olympics through the Polar Plunge, and especially with Unified Schools, because that's where the funding keeps coming from, is from Special Olympics Oregon to keep us going. And once our schools meet a 500 excitement level that we've done it by ourselves.
Everything after that, that we've raised past that, half of that comes back to our unified programming. And so we can use that on new equipment, we can use it on new uniforms, we can use it for practice space, we can use it for invitationals, we can use it for, we've had the couple celebration Parties after games to host other schools and just embrace the whole idea.
It can go in towards Respect Week. There's so many different avenues and so many different pillars of our program that we can use that funding to spread inclusion all over. That's great. And you mentioned that you don't have to get in the water, which I'm a big fan of. So is there going to be a place where we can just sponsor or pay a donation or is that something that we can get out in our current at some point so we can let everyone who's listening give, give some money to our amazing team?
Yeah, of course. I I started our web page, but I'm going to pass it off to our Mamiya, he's our Unified Sports President. And he's taking the leadership on this to try and get some more funding out there for us. I have been advertising the Polar Plunge to anyone who will listen to me that I've talked to almost all of my classes, my teachers, and have raised about a hundred dollars so far.
Our principal, Ms. Collier, sent out a QR code and I'm not sure if it was a link, but a QR code to donate with the newsletter that she sends out that has all the information about sports and upcoming events. So that's where you can donate to our webpage and then also a great way to support is showing up and cheering on our team because we need this external support.
Absolutely, and we can all be there to cheer on those people jumping in the cold river. It just sounds so good. It's crazy to me because it's so cold, but I, I totally get it and I love being a part of it. It was pretty cold. We were a team of three last year. It was myself, our speech language pathologist in the building, Ms.
Hornung, and we also had a peer teammate jump in, Elise, with us last year. And so we're hoping to go from three maybe to 10. I don't know who's going to embrace the Willamette River. I think Amaya's going to embrace it. He looks ready to go. I'm, I'm so ready to jump in and run that 5k. Oh, wow. We're doing both.
That's great. So Erin and Amaya, any final thoughts or insights you'd like to share about your experiences with Unified Sports? And this is your time to tell us anything else that's going on that you want everyone in our listeners to hear. A good place to start is with our upcoming events. So on February 16th, we have a basketball game at West Linn.
On February 23rd, we have a home game. That's our senior night for our Unified Sports basketball team. So that's important. And then shortly after that, we kick off Respect Week. We start with the Polar Plunge on the 24th, and then we'll finish out that Respect Week, or Week of Inclusion, with our regional tournament with Special Olympics Oregon on March 2nd.
How about you, Amaya? Any final thoughts or insights you'd like to share? My own personal experiences, such as like the COVID 19 pandemic stopped me and I know a lot of other people from playing sports in middle school and early high school. And I really miss that sense of team and family that I saw so many other people experience.
And so when I joined Unified, I was able to experience that. for sort of like the first time in my life. And that was an incredible feeling. And I just think that not only does it benefit our team, it benefits the school community. And I think that that community is not just for students with disabilities, but it's for everyone.
Great. Thank you so much for being here and sharing your inspiring stories. I really enjoyed this time with you and I look forward to continuing to watch you play and grow and learn. And thank you so much, Erin and all your coaches for all the work you do and Amaya for, for all the students who really pitch in and make this a great program.
So thanks so much for being here today. Thank you for having me. That was truly inspiring. Now shifting our focus to our final segment, Where's Jen? In addition to basketball games and polar plunges, this February recognizes Black History Month and Lunar New Year, both which offer rich opportunities to embrace and celebrate diversity in our community.
Jen, please tell us more. Certainly. Our schools actively participate in honoring Black History Month by infusing instructional learning through various activities, including class projects, assemblies, and student led initiatives. And I love to hit as many of those activities as possible. And we're also partnering with the City of Lake Oswego, Friends of Lake Oswego Library, and then Respond to Racism on an MLK community celebration on Wednesday, February 28th from 530 to 630 at the library.
I'm also looking forward to being at the Palisades World Language School for their Lunar New Year celebration on February 15th. It's in, all school families are invited and it's going to be an amazing opportunity. And then as Aaron said, we have Respect Week coming up in February. It's a week long, tons of activities that will kick off with a school wide assembly with the Unified Basketball Game, and I cannot wait to see that team play again. Yeah, I know there's many aspects to the Unified Program, and today we were able to focus on one of the three pillars, so I think I can say that we want to have Erin back here soon to share and highlight the other pillars as well.
But until that time, this concludes today's episode of Learning in Lake Oswego. Join us next time as we look inside our district's diverse career opportunities. Everyone has a different journey on how they got here. I know Jen and I both have different journeys on how we got here and where we landed and where we're going.
I'm really looking forward to spotlighting and talking to a few people on their inspiring stories in working for LOSD. Until next time, stay curious and stay engaged. Class dismissed. We hope you found this episode informative and helpful. While our discussions are general, we understand each family's experience is unique.
If you have specific questions about your child, please contact your school principal. To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego.
We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.