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Rock Ridge launches Unified Sports program with Special Olympics support
Summary
Rock Ridge will start a Unified Sports program (grades 7–12) with 15 athletes and 16 partners currently signed; Special Olympics Minnesota is covering startup costs for the first year, organizers told the board.
Rock Ridge Special Education staff introduced a new Unified Sports program, a Special Olympics-backed initiative that pairs students with intellectual disabilities with general-education partners for inclusive practices and events.
Stephanie Agones, special education director, and program staff said the district has 15 athletes and 16 partners signed up across grades 7–12, two coaches in place and program coordinators assigned. Special Olympics Minnesota will pay 100% of the start-up costs for the first year, covering jerseys, equipment and transportation to early events, Agones said.
Organizers described a calendar of monthly events—bocce ball (first event), bowling, basketball, swimming, floor hockey, wiffle ball and track and field—with an inaugural event scheduled for Nov. 20 in Proctor. Staff emphasized the program’s inclusion goals and a broader aim to build unified classes and events across K–12 as part of a three-pillar model to become a unified champion school.
Board members and community volunteers praised the program and offered to help with volunteers and logistics. No formal vote was required; the board publicly thanked staff and accepted the update.
