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Livonia highlights unified sports and peer‑to‑peer programs as model of inclusion
Summary
Livonia Public Schools presented videos, student speakers and parent testimony on unified athletics and Peer Connections programs, which staff and parents said increase social inclusion and practical skills for students with disabilities and their peers.
At its May 19 regular meeting, the Livonia Public Schools Board of Education heard a district presentation titled “The Power of Unified,” showcasing unified athletics, Peer Connections and Peer Link programs that pair general‑education students with classmates who receive special education services.
District student services staff and students from Frost Middle School, Churchill High School and Franklin High School described year‑long Peer Connections classes, Peer Link placements, unified basketball and other unified sports. Frost principal and program staff said the programs aim to give students with individualized education programs (IEPs) more typical school experiences and to build social and motor skills.
The presentation included video clips and multiple students and parents speaking in favor of the programs. Frost staff said the middle‑school unified basketball roster grew to 36 players this year, including eight peer‑athletes who serve as partners. Frost staff also said the Michigan Department of Education visited the district and recognized Frost with a least‑restrictive‑environment token for the district’s inclusive practices.
Supporters said the programs produce measurable social benefits. Parent Adam Lefever told the board the unified basketball games “are so positive and so kind… it’s hard even now to kind of hold back tears.” A Franklin parent said the program “has been deeply meaningful” and helped peers learn to teach and lead.
Teachers and coaches described Peer Connections as a year‑long elective in which general‑education students regularly join center‑based classes for shared activities, planning days and social experiences. Staff described Peer Link as a newer approach placing general‑education peers in arts, gym and elective classes to increase inclusion throughout the school day. Churchill staff said their unified program now includes basketball, bocce and soccer, plus a unified club and spirit squad.
Board members praised the programs and recommended the board be notified of schedules so they can attend games and events. Superintendent Andrea Elquist and Board President Karen Bradford joined board members in commending students, staff and parents for the programs.
The board did not take formal action on the presentation; the item was a district “points of pride” report illustrating program activity and community response.
