CHSD 218 honors Special Olympics teams and presents student awards

The CHSD 218 School Board on April 15 recognized multiple Special Olympics basketball teams and presented student awards at the District Administrative Center.

Dr. Jacobson introduced the adult transition program Special Olympics basketball team, which took silver at the state tournament held March 13–15, and asked the team's coaches and players to come forward. "You're gonna be really, really pleased with what these kids and these adults have accomplished," Dr. Jacobson said, thanking coaches and staff for their work.

The board also recognized Eisenhower High School's Special Olympics team for winning a state gold medal; Coach Manuelson introduced team members including Anthony Gonzalez, Yolis Suarez and others. Richards High School's team, coached by Kathy Mangana and Kelly Fleming, was similarly honored for a state gold-medal performance.

In a separate presentation, a district presenter awarded the "Let Your Light Shine" award to student Valeria Martinez for leadership roles including NJROTC and support for incoming freshmen. A second presenter announced an Illuminate scholarship and recognized Victoria Peschevsky for founding a Polish club, leadership in student organizations, placing third at the Ed Rising state competition, and authoring and illustrating a children's book.

The board moved to approve the resolutions and commendations honoring the teams and students; the motion passed on a roll-call vote.

The recognitions took place early in the meeting and were followed by routine business. No public comments on agenda items were offered during the public-comment period that followed the presentations.