A national movement accelerating social inclusion among young people with and without intellectual disabilities (ID) has reached a historic milestone. Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools^® (UCS) programming now partners with 10,000 schools, from Pre-K through university, in 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Together, these schools are fostering more positive climates and showcasing the gifts of every student.

Since 2008, Special Olympics has played a transformative role in cultivating inclusive school environments where students of all abilities thrive. A bridge has been built extending inclusion from the athletic field into the classroom. The UCS strategy, adopted by at least one school in 25% of U.S. school districts, offers a three-tiered model that not only encourages inclusion but equips young people with critical leadership and career-readiness skills. As one student noted, “Being part of the UCS program has helped me develop leadership skills and prepare for future employment opportunities. It's a pathway to success for all students.”

Research from the 2023-2024 UCS Annual Evaluation conducted by the Center for Social Development and Education at The University of Massachusetts, Boston, demonstrates the program’s profound impact:

1. Participation in UCS activities and events are associated with a stronger sense of belonging for students—both with and without intellectual disabilities. This perspective is shared by adult educators, administrators, and students alike.
2. A student's sense of belonging in their school is a pathway to more positive attitudes toward peers with ID and more positive perceptions of their school as a socially inclusive place. Students who participate more in UCS have a higher sense of belonging in their school, leading them to report more positive attitudes and perceptions.
3. Students report that they perceive UCS activities as safe spaces where they can be themselves and learn about who they are and want to be.
4. A majority of liaisons felt UCS made a big difference in increasing their knowledge and skills working with children with ID.
5. A majority of liaisons felt UCS positively impacted their professional and career development.

We know educators and administrators face a lot of challenges, from promoting student well-being, fostering inclusive environments, building community connections, and boosting engagement—all while keeping academic goals on track. But what if there was a program that supported all these goals? UCS programming empowers students to lead the way in creating inclusive and supportive school communities. Through Special Olympics Unified Sports^®, inclusive youth leadership, and whole school engagement, UCS not only addresses these priorities but also creates a culture where every student feels valued and included.

Additionally, Unified programming serves as a powerful reminder of the reasons many became teachers in the first place. Schools implementing UCS programming often use it as a springboard for broader systematic changes aimed at ending discrimination against individuals with intellectual disabilities. The program’s success is built on the support and collaboration of students, staff, and administrators working together toward shared goals.

How do you bring Unified programming to your school and become a part of the next 10,000 schools?

1. Explore Resources: Educators can access free, adaptable lessons, informative youth-led videos, and engaging activities by joining Unified Classroom. With your guidance, students K through 12 can begin building inclusive mindsets and leadership skills, leading to more accepting communities.
2. Foster Inclusion: Ensure youth with intellectual disabilities are included in the fabric of the school and feel a part of all activities, opportunities, and functions.
3. Learn More: Visit GenerationUnified.org for more information.

As the education community celebrates this incredible milestone, Special Olympics remains committed to listening to, supporting, and amplifying youth voices. One student reflected, “Unified Champion Schools activities have given me the confidence to participate more in school and collaborate with my classmates. It’s been a great experience for me and my friends.”

We envision this experience for every student. With more school districts joining the Unified Generation, the future of education looks brighter and more inclusive. Together, we are building educational communities where all students feel seen, valued, and supported. Let’s work to make every school an inclusive community where all students can thrive—starting today!

The Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools^® program is generously supported by the Office of Special Education Programs at the U.S. Department of Education. 

** Quotes and research included are from the 2023-2024 UCS Annual Evaluation conducted by the Center for Social Development and Education at The University of Massachusetts, Boston.