Celebrating Inclusion: IPOD and Middle School Visits to SOMI

Recently, our IPOD (5th and 6th grade) students had an incredible opportunity to cheer on the elementary basketball Unified teams at the Special Olympics Michigan Inclusion Center (SOMI) across the street from the West Campus. A unified team brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to compete, promoting inclusion, teamwork, and friendship. These teams help break down stereotypes and create meaningful connections through sports.

While simply watching and cheering might seem like a small act, it was so much more. Some of our students took the time to learn the athletes' names, offering personal encouragement that brought smiles all around. Their support helped foster a truly uplifting atmosphere, and their impact was deeply meaningful. We are incredibly proud of these students!

The IPOD discussions about inclusion continue beyond these events. During their recent novel study of Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper, IPOD students explored the story of Melody, a girl with cerebral palsy determined to show the world her intelligence and abilities despite communication challenges. The book has inspired important conversations about empathy, inclusion, and breaking barriers for those with disabilities.

The middle school also joined in on the excitement, heading over to SOMI to support the middle school United teams. Their presence and encouragement were a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion and community.

In addition to cheering on athletes, the IPOD encouraged jumpers from Kent ISD as they bravely took on the Polar Plunge! The experience didn’t stop there—students toured the Inclusion Center, learning more about inclusive spaces and even taking an inclusion pledge. Afterwards, they engaged in fun activities, playing bocce ball, pickleball, and cornhole.

A highlight of the visit was the opportunity for our students to interact with a few SOMI student-athletes. One athlete’s mother shared a touching story, explaining how her son had to leave public school due to bullying. She expressed how much she appreciated our students’ kindness and how her son had never felt so welcomed by a group of peers before. This moment reinforced the importance of our commitment to inclusion and empathy.