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Parent and coach urges Mechanicville schools to add Unified Basketball
Summary
Joseph Montanen, a parent and coach, asked the board to establish Unified Basketball so students with disabilities can play alongside peers and continue participation beyond current offerings (Unified Bowling); he cited Special Olympics' Unified Champion School standards.
Joseph Montanen addressed the board during public comment on March 6 and asked the district to add Unified Basketball to give students with disabilities sustained athletic opportunities.
Montanen introduced himself as a local parent and coach and described Unified Sports as programs that pair students with and without disabilities to compete as teammates. "Unified sports also gives the opportunity for neurotypical athletes to be other athletes," Montanen said, arguing the program supports inclusion and leadership development. He told the board that while Unified Bowling is available, families have long awaited Unified Basketball and that the program helps students remain engaged beyond elementary levels.
Montanen referenced the district’s recognition as a Unified Champion School and said that sustaining the additional sport would align with the school’s commitment to inclusion. He noted national Special Olympics standards and urged the board to consider Unified Basketball during program planning and staffing discussions.
Board response and context: board members acknowledged the request and indicated the district will consider the program as part of programming and budget discussions. The public comment concluded without immediate board action; the item may be addressed in future programming or budget deliberations.
