The NFHS proudly works alongside Special Olympics to promote inclusion opportunities for athletes with disabilities. Unified Sports programs, where athletes with disabilities participate with non-disabled athletes, is a growing and important endeavor of schools and state associations across the country.

NFHS Director of Sports Lindsey Atkinson, who works with the NFHS inclusion team, was part of the first-ever National Recognition Program Certifying Body that selected the honorees.

From ESPN:

A Special Olympics Unified Champion School endeavors to create an inclusive school climate and to promote a sense of collaboration, engagement and respect for all members of the student body and staff. A Unified Champion School receiving national banner recognition is one that has demonstrated commitment to inclusion by meeting 10 national standards of excellence. These standards were developed by a national panel of leaders from Special Olympics and the education community.

See all honored schools from ESPN.

The top five schools were announced on October 12.