Redwood City, CA–More than 1,000 student-athletes from 18 public school districts, several private schools, and the San Mateo County Office of Education will participate this year in San Mateo County’s Super Sports Days, which unify students with and without disabilities through athletic competition in track and field events.
The 2019 Super Sports Days, which began on Thursday, May 2, at Jefferson Union High School District’s Terra Nova High School, include a range of track and field events such as assisted walks, wheelchair races, runs, standing long jumps, and relays to accommodate students at different developmental levels. Each day begins with a special opening ceremony where students parade onto the field and close with all participants joining in a spirited dance-off.
Through training and playing together, students develop new friendships and greater understanding and empathy. “The excitement in the air is palpable as soon as you step onto the field,” shared Nancy Magee, San Mateo County Superintendent of Schools. “It is apparent to anyone present how Super Sports Days can positively impact students’ confidence, provide opportunities to develop peer relationships, and increase understanding and respect for differences – all of which are key components to creating safe and supportive schools.”
Super Sports Days in San Mateo County began in 2001 through a partnership between the County Office of Education and Special Olympics Northern California. Since 2017, the number of student-athletes in San Mateo County’s Super Sports Days has more than doubled and the number of schools hosting the event has grown from one to four. This growth highlights the increased engagement and interest in inclusive athletics and education in the county.
The Super Sports Days events will continue this year on Thursday, May 16, at Brisbane School District’s Lipman Middle School and on Friday, May 17, at the County Office of Education’s Palos Verdes campus.
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The San Mateo County Office of Education is committed to ensuring excellence and equity in education by inspiring students, investing in teachers, invigorating leaders, and involving communities.