On Monday, October 9, a group of talented student athletes at Windsor were able to participate in the Special Olympics bowling tournament that was held at Imperial Bowl. The event included students from schools all over Jefferson County. Student Council members were able to volunteer at this event and witness many kids showing their skills as well as making new friends.

Parents and family members were welcome to come watch and, not surprisingly, there was a huge turnout.

“I love to watch her play and meet new friends,” Tiffany Caughlan, mother of freshman Grace West, said.

The whole room was lit up with smiles and words of encouragement, which made the whole experience even better. Each student bowled two complete games. The participants had a great time in the tournament–with several Windsor students bringing home gold medals.  

Special Olympics is very important to the teachers and students of Windsor, as well as many other people. The event includes students from many grade levels, including students from the high school, middle school and intermediate center.

“Without this, students don’t get a lot of opportunities to get to know my kids and they are just as much a part of our school as anyone else,” special education teacher Sarah Shackelford said.  

It is important to remember that being different is not a bad quality to have, and inclusion is one of the main things that makes Windsor High School so great. Giving these kids a chance to compete allows them to have a better school experience.

“It gives a chance to to those that maybe didn’t have the chance before to build self-confidence,” Special Olympic staff member Amber Young said.  “They can show the abilities they do have. I feel like,for the most part, a lot of our kids and adults with intellectual disabilities their whole lives have been focused on what they’re not going to be able to do and what they can’t do. Special Olympics gives them the chance to show the things that they can do and shine in that light.”