Jr. GLOmies Elective Class : Increasing Inclusion and Building positive relationships within our schools

Every student has a desire to belong. When students feel disconnected or excluded, it can lead to challenges in their mental, emotional, and academic well-being. The Unified Schools program, part of Special Olympics, aims to foster inclusive communities where all students feel welcome, valued, and included—both within the school and in the broader community. Research has shown that inclusive environments positively impact students with and without disabilities. Students with disabilities feel connected to school, develop social skills, increase confidence, increase peer interactions and show increased school success. General education peers benefit by building relationships, developing leadership and critical thinking skills, show personal growth in future education goals related to education, and develop high levels of empathy. . Inclusion is part of every student's daily education plan providing the Least Restrictive Environment for our students.. I am proposing the addition of a Junior GLOmies elective class at our middle school to provide general education students a chance to work side by side and partner with students with disabilities within our school This will be a semester-long, daily opportunity to work directly with students in the DCD program through leadership and development and implementing a range of activities, including service opportunities, , games, social skills development, art, science, and physical activity. As the number of students with Intellectual Disabilities continues to rise within our school district, it is essential that we offer more purposeful opportunities for inclusive interactions. This elective would not only benefit students with intellectual disabilities but would also provide their peers with the chance to experience the power of inclusion firsthand. The goal is to create a rewarding, impactful program that enhances both student engagement and social-emotional growth across our school community. Inclusion is a WORK IN PROGRESS: Inclusion needs to be a school-wide belief in which diversity is viewed as a positive resource within our school. Inclusion requires team effort with all hands on deck: administrators, teachers and students need to be supportive to implement more change within our schools. The Jr. GLOmies Elective class represents a step forward in building a stronger, Unified school community. It will offer students the chance to grow as leaders, advocates, and mentors while fostering a culture where ALL learners are celebrated and supported. Key words: Inclusion, Unified Schools