Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Special Education Inclusion topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Goshen reports Special Olympics turnout, SESSA receives Orange County grant for sensory rooms
Summary
District hosted Special Olympics with about 180 athletes from 11 districts, raised just over $6,000, and SESSA announced a $3,275.62 grant to buy sensory 'comm room' equipment for buildings.
Goshen Central School District hosted the Special Olympics at Goshen High School on May 17, drawing about 180 athletes from 11 participating districts, district officials said at the June 23 board meeting.
Assistant Superintendent for Student Support (presenter Dr. Hendershot) told the board the event was volunteer powered and supported by sponsorships; the district collected approximately a little over $6,000 from sponsorships and donations. Volunteers included district staff, parents and students; the district provided certificates to student volunteers.
Speakers acknowledged board members who volunteered during the event, including board member Johnson and others who helped recruit and run activities. District staff and volunteers said the Special Olympics featured inclusive events and marked the district’s first time hosting the local meet.
Representatives of SESSA (the Special Education Parent Teacher Student Association) said Orange County’s Think Differently program awarded SESSA a grant of $3,275.62. The grant funded four sensory “comm room” carts—each with low lighting, tactile toys, noise-cancelling headphones and other items—intended to help students who are sensory-sensitive or need a quiet space during events and school hours.
SESSA said each participating classroom at the Special Olympics received a sensory bag with items used by athletes; noise-cancelling headphones were singled out as especially useful. The association said it will work with building administrators on protocols for storage, sign-out and cleaning of comm-room carts and to expand access for weekday and evening events.
SESSA also presented an inaugural “Spirit of SESSA” award honoring 15 graduating seniors described as self-advocates and allies for inclusion. Board members and speakers praised the volunteers and emphasized plans to host the elementary Special Olympics again on June 6, 2026.
