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Unified Winner

 

Victor J. Andrew High School is one of just 12 schools in Illinois named a National Unified Champion Banner School by Special Olympics North America.

This distinction marks the highest level of achievement for Unified Champion Schools in the nation, recognizing their leadership in creating inclusive school communities where all students are accepted and celebrated.

“Being named a Unified Champion School highlights Andrew’s dedication to creating an inclusive community where each student is appreciated and recognized. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of the entire staff, particularly our Special Education Department and our coaches. By being more inclusive, our school community is more united,” said Principal Dr. Abir Othman.

A Special Olympics Unified Champion School demonstrates commitment to inclusion by meeting 10 standards of excellence developed by a national panel of leaders from Special Olympics and the education community. According to Special Olympics, a Special Olympics Unified Champion School has an inclusive school climate and exudes a sense of collaboration, engagement and respect for all members of the student body and staff. 

Special Services teacher and Special Olympics coach Nowal Shalash said, “Unified programs empower students to be leaders, to be kind, and to be who they are without judgment. I have witnessed our own students, both athletes and partners, spread Unified activities into all areas of the community. Unified programs teach real-world lessons to us all.” 

The primary activities within these standards include Special Olympics Unified Sports (where students with and without disabilities train and compete as teammates), Inclusive Youth Leadership and Whole-School Engagement. Banner Unified Champion Schools also demonstrate they are self-sustainable or have a plan in place to sustain these activities into the future. The expectation of this recognition is that the 10 standards are continuously being met, year after year.