Pathways Elementary holds special olympics celebration

'Inclusive education is an important focus at Pathways,' a teacher said.

By Jarleene Almenas
| 5:00 p.m. May 24, 2019

A student hands a basketball to Braydon Powell during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Flynn Robert McAndrew runs during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Abigail Jiloty jumps a hurdle during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Austin Norman rolls a ball down an inflatable chute during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Clayland Gilman crawls out of an inflated tunnel during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Audriana Aylward plays basketball during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

A banner hangs within sight of the events during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Paxton Rinyu, Christians Hepburn and Abigail Jiloty run during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Chase Kennedy works on his building skills during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Teacher Joan Wheeler blows bubbles for her students Abigail Jiloty, Emmersyn Burgess and Adriana Aylward during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Ormond Beach Observer
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Pathways Elementary students participated in their school's special olympics celebration on Thursday, May 23.

The students took part in each of the six stations, which included basketball, soccer and obstacle courses as part of the Young Athlete's and Little Elite programs, said teacher Pamela Wheeler in an email. The special olympics also featured sensory activities like a ball pit, a bounce house and fake snow.

"Inclusive education is an important focus at Pathways," Wheeler said. "... Students of all abilities participated in this event and demonstrated the teamwork and friendships at Pathways Elementary that continue to help build our inclusive environment."

Several community members from the Special Athlete's organization, Ormond Beach Police Department, Volusia County Sheriff's Office and some Seabreeze High School students lended a hand for the special olympics as well. Donnie's Donuts provided treats after the event.

"Seeing the students’ and parents’ smiles provided a warm and fuzzy feeling to all," Wheeler said.

author

Jarleene Almenas

Jarleene Almenas is the managing editor for the Ormond Beach Observer. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Central Florida and has been with the Observer since 2017.