Unified Champion Schools

Young Athlete Program

“This program has empowered our students and given them a sense of pride and belonging. As a teacher, it was a rewarding experience to see students with and without disabilities show progress in their physical health and development during the year. Young Athletes improved the students fine and gross motor skills, helped develop friendships, and boosted their social skills.”

 

Kaila Huzinga, Teacher, Butte School District

What is a Unified Champion School

Sports are a powerful force. They work towards shifting the focus from disability to ability, and from isolation to involvement.

Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools is education and sports-based programming led through student engagement. With the assistance of funding from Special Olympics North America and the Office of Special Education Programs, Special Olympics Montana and partner schools serve as a force for social inclusion across the state. Our vision is to create a world where people with intellectual disabilities are welcomed in their communities and join with others to learn, work, compete and play, having the same rights and opportunities as others.

National Banner Unified Champion Schools in Montana

2022

Capital High – Helena

Carroll College* – Helena

Great Falls Early Learning Center – Great Falls

 

2021

Bozeman High School* – Bozeman

Gallatin High School – Bozeman

Polson Middle School – Polson

 

*Selected to ESPN Honor Roll

Current & Upcoming UCS Programs & Events

  • The Special Olympics State Basketball Tournament is heading to our capital city, Helena, from November 9-11, 2023! Witness the passion, dedication, and extraordinary talent of our athletes as they tak...

  • The Special Olympics office building in Great Falls now provides a splash of color for folks of downtown. SOMT’s Great Falls building was one of nine new murals installed in mid-August for ArtsFest Mo...

  • Special Olympics Montana welcomes Terri Norman as the Unified Champion Schools (UCS) Senior Director! As an educator for 26 years in Helena, Terri was a teacher leader who was instrumental with the de...

  • As a teacher in the Butte School District, Kaila Huzinga found the perfect opportunity to promote inclusion at her elementary school. She was excited to provide students with fun and engaging learning...