Musselman High School organized a bowling event for its Unified Champion Schools program, where special education students joined general education peers at Pikeside Bowl. This initiative is part of the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools program aimed at fostering unity among students through sports.
The school has recently incorporated bowling into its activities to bridge gaps between different student groups, with the location’s proximity and similarity to bocce ball being deciding factors. Brian Kleppner, a special education teacher and liaison for the program, expressed enthusiasm about the event. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and how this initiative helps dismantle barriers between students.
“A lot of times, these two groups are isolated,” Kleppner said. “When I was in high school, there was a Key Club that did a lot of stuff like this. That’s why I became a teacher. This program gives students the chance to get to know each other and have fun.”
Kleppner highlighted the significant role played by volunteers and leaders in making the program successful, noting that it is largely student-led.
Brendan Dugan, one of the student leaders and Musselman’s bocce ball champion, also spoke about his experience with the program. “This program means a lot,” Dugan said. “It lets us connect with others and spend time with my friends.”
Keira Foltz, another student leader in the Unified Champion School program, shared her motivation for joining after being inspired by someone she knew who helped special needs students during her freshman year.
“My mom had an aunt with Down syndrome, so she always taught me to look past people’s differences,” Foltz said. “I’ve met my best friend Aleah and so many other great friends through working with special education students. It’s just so great to see their faces when they aren’t left out.”
