Taking the plunge for a purpose
“The event marked an exciting milestone for FMS, which is in its first year as an official Unified Sports team through Special Olympics,” FMS seventh-grade assistant principal Brandon White said. “Unified Sports brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities to compete on the same team, promoting inclusion, teamwork and school community.
“In addition to Unified Sports, Farragut Middle School students participate in several Special Olympics sports throughout the year, including bowling, track and basketball,” he said. “Through the Polar Plunge fundraiser, the FMS team raised approximately $4,500.
“A portion of the funds will directly support the school’s Special Olympics and Unified Sports programs, helping provide opportunities, equipment and experiences for student-athletes,” White said.
He added the initiative is led by teacher, Hannah Richardson, with support from staff member, Angie Duncan, “whose dedication has helped expand inclusive opportunities for students across the school community,” he said.
White shared his pride in the program’s impact, saying, “I couldn’t be more proud of the opportunities that our Unified Sports and Special Olympics student athletes get through this program.
“We are proud of the work and growth that happens daily in Ms. Richardson’s classroom and in our school community at Farragut Middle School, ensuring an inclusive and inviting environment that strives to provide opportunities for all students,” he said. “What a blast we had that Saturday. I can’t wait to see their smiling faces in this program and at the events that follow!
“Farragut Middle School looks forward to continuing its partnership with Special Olympics and expanding opportunities for all students to compete, connect and succeed together,” White said.
