Over 120 special education students from Glendale Unified School District elementary schools will compete at the 2017 GUSD Fall School Games on Thursday, Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon at Roosevelt Middle School.

School Games provides training and competitive sports opportunities for special education and adapted physical education students. It encourages youth participation, inclusion and leadership in schools and prepares students for participation in Special Olympics Southern California community sports programs beyond the school day.

Over the past month, GUSD adapted physical education specialists Dave Beard, Tyrone Allen and Chris Chacon have been training the athletes to prepare them for the competition.

“School Games is a great opportunity to showcase the athletes hard work,” said Beard. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate their abilities, not their inabilities. I challenge anyone not to leave the event without a smile.”

Students will compete in track & field with Roosevelt Middle School students providing one-on-one buddy support with community members overseeing the competition. Roosevelt is a Special Olympics Unified Champion School and is committed to acceptance and inclusion for all students on their campus.

“Roosevelt is excited to welcome these inspiring athletes to our school,” said Roosevelt Principal Dr. Kyle Bruich. “We are hopeful that this incredible event will help bring a better appreciation of the diversity that exists right here in our own community. This allows a unique opportunity for Roosevelt students to reach out without leaving our own campus.”

The opening ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. immediately preceding competition.