We are bursting with pride as we celebrate another phenomenal season for our Special Olympics track and field team. It was amazing to see athletes from Emerson, Lincoln, Field, Franklin, Roosevelt, and Washington this year!
“Every year, I say the Special Olympics is my favorite day,” said Emerson Special Education Teacher and Team D64 Coach Karen Hess. “The challenges that we might see daily quickly fade away, and what is left is the joy, the determination, and the unique light each athlete brings.”
24 athletes took the stage at the regional games at Hoffman Estates High School in April. Their hard work results in an impressive medal haul for the District:
- 11 Gold Medals
- 6 Silver Medals
- 7 Bronze Medals
“We could not be more proud of everything that you did this season,” said Franklin Special Education Teacher and Team D64 Coach Amanda Chaikin. “Wonderful job, athletes! It was an incredible season, and your hard work did not go unnoticed.”
We are honored to recognize the students who dedicated themselves to their training and sportsmanship this season.
- Emerson: Maya A., Kimi C., Noah D., Cece E., Seth K., Ben W., Yapheth D.
- Field: Henry C.
- Franklin: Aiden W., Killian D., Liam B., Brian K., Jesse B., Atticus H.
- Lincoln: Augie B., Maksim M., Mahad R., Kyle A., Peter F.
- Roosevelt: Harper T., Llewyn B.
- Washington: Reed J., Matvii B., Alden P.
Next up, Kimi, Noah, and Atticus will compete in the Summer State Games at Illinois State University.
A huge shoutout to all of our Team D64 volunteers. These volunteers come to practices and spend several hours on the day of the event supporting our athletes: Mary Chapman, Leah Daly, Casey Fitzgerald, Michaela Fletcher, Julie Flyke, Nicole Golebiowski, Val Halston, Grace Harper, Marta Judge, Jules Kashul, Nicky Lohens, Joe Mathey, Lisa Nelson, Kate O'Brien, Debbie O'Donnell, Debbie Royse, Emma Sebo, Julia Shein, Emma Shine, Snezana Cenich, Beth Snyder, Ethan Tait, Theresa Versaci, and Tiffany Witt.