Students from Anderson Grove, Golden Hills, G. Stanley Hall, and Prairie Queen Elementary Schools came together recently for their collaborative Unified Kickball Tournament, celebrating a year of building friendships and practicing inclusion. Despite threatening weather, the rain held off long enough for participants to enjoy an afternoon of friendly competition and camaraderie on the kickball court.

The tournament represents the culmination of the district's Unified Sports program, which brings students with and without disabilities together on the same sports teams throughout the school year. This innovative approach to athletics emphasizes friendship, inclusion, and shared experiences rather than competition alone, creating meaningful connections between students of all abilities.

Unified Sports serves as more than just recreational activity—it's a powerful tool for building empathy, understanding, and lasting relationships within the school community. Students who participate in the program develop important social skills, learn to appreciate diverse perspectives, and gain confidence through teamwork and mutual support.

The success of the Unified Kickball Tournament demonstrates the district's ongoing commitment to creating inclusive environments where every student can participate, contribute, and thrive alongside their peers.