Participating in youth sports is one of the best ways for children to remain physically fit, make friends and learn important life lessons that simply can’t be taught in a classroom. At the Harrison School District, we strongly believe students with different abilities should not be left on the sidelines.

Many special education students are members of the district’s Special Olympics team, which competes in a variety of athletic events throughout the school year. Athletes can join the team on their eighth birthday and remain eligible for the school-age competitions until they turn 21.

Led by certified coaches, Harrison students travel to regional competitions for basketball and bowling. Then, in the spring, our F.S. Garrison Stadium hosts the Area 2 Track & Field championships, bringing schools from six northwest Arkansas counties together for a day of friendly competition and fellowship.

Harrison students are extremely supportive of our Special Olympics athletes. Prior to every major competition, students at the Middle School and High School host HERO Camp, student-led training sessions in which varsity athletes guide Special Olympians through a variety of activities to boost their skills and confidence. This initiative was featured in an Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators newsletter as a model for boosting engagement and bringing students together.