1. DRAFT Atlanta Public Schools

2. Special Olympics Everyone has heard of Special Olympics. It is the largest sports organization for children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. It is modeled after the Olympic Games and athletes range in age from 8-108!

3. Special Olympics Special Olympics is something to experience. And once you do, you will never view it the same again. Whether you are a spectator or a volunteer, you will be inspired.

4. Special Olympics We are so fortunate here in APS to continue to provide this program to our athletes with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics is their athletic program; where they train, compete, make friends, socialize and so much more. And these moments today will be lasting memories tomorrow.

5. Special Olympics Currently 33 elementary, middle and high schools participate with 67 individual classes for a total of 389 athletes in 4 of 5 sports that are offered. Specifically, Motor Activities (for our athletes of lower ability), Bocce, Basketball, Bowling and Track & Field. All athletes participate in Bowling and Track & Field, our culminating sport for the year.

6. We also have provided the opportunity to send some athletes to the State Winter Games this past January where 2 Unified Basketball teams (½ Olympians, ½ Partners) won Silver and Bronze medals and our 1 bowler from Carver HS was a gold medal winner. Special Olympics

7. Moving forward, my vision is always 100% participation for students who wish to be involved as well as offering more sports to compete in. Next, to increase our Unified Partner Program, currently only at N. Atlanta HS. With our Olympians playing and competing side by side with their peers bridges the gap for our students with intellectual disabilities. In summary, I encourage each of you to become part of the Special Olympics experience!