This spring, two campuses, two communities, and hundreds of students came together through the power of Special Olympics Unified programming, creating unforgettable moments of connection.
In May, students from Curtis School and Harvard-Westlake joined Help Group students for two spirited Unified events that celebrated far more than athletics. Through team play and shared experiences, students demonstrated what inclusion looks and feels like when young people are given opportunities to connect, lead, and grow together.
Curtis School & Help Group Unified Field Day
On May 14, more than 135 students gathered at Curtis School for the second annual Unified Field Day. Curtis fifth graders welcomed Help Group elementary students through a spirited “Tunnel of Love” before rotating through team activities.
Throughout the school year, Curtis student leaders and Help Group Bridgeport students met monthly to share meals, play sports, and help plan the event, friendships that came vividly to life on the field.
“I loved how everyone was so happy and had the chance to bond,” shared Johnny.
“It felt really special when we gave each other medals,” added Ben.
Dr. Meera Ratnesar, Head of School at Curtis School, reflected on the deeper meaning behind the event: “We here at Curtis talk about having a sound mind, sound body, and compassionate heart. That’s our mission, and there is no better day to show all three than our Unified Day with Help Group.”
Sue Anne Kaples, Help Group Director of Alternate Curriculum, expressed gratitude for the partnership, sharing, “Our students came away from the day feeling truly welcomed and valued by the Curtis community.”
The morning concluded with a medal ceremony where buddies awarded medals to one another a reminder that Unified is ultimately about belonging.
Harvard-Westlake & Help Group Unified Basketball Game
Less than a week later, the spirit of inclusion continued at Harvard-Westlake Upper School during the second annual Unified Basketball Game, part of a nine-year Special Olympics partnership between Harvard-Westlake and The Help Group.
Throughout the year, students from both schools built strong connections through Club Unified activities focused on inclusion, leadership, and belonging.
Speaking about the heart of Club Unified, Harvard-Westlake student Michaela shared, “It’s about saying, ‘I see you, I hear you, let’s connect.’ The differences don’t matter. We promote a sense of unity between HW and Help Group students.”
As athletes entered the gym through another enthusiastic “Tunnel of Love,” cheers echoed from the stands as student leaders, basketball players, spirit team members, and volunteers created an electric atmosphere filled with encouragement and connection.
Head of Upper School Beth Slattery, who has helped foster a school culture rooted in belonging and inclusion, reflected on the personal significance Special Olympics holds for her. “My younger brother Mike was a Special Olympian growing up,” she shared. “His competitions were often the most included he felt and the highlight of his time playing sports.”
Director of the Learning Center, Julee Madkins, who oversees Club Unified and helped spearhead the event, emphasized the impact of the partnership. “My career has been spent removing barriers so all students can fully participate in the same opportunities and experiences,” she said. “It’s been such a beautiful partnership — our kids love your kids, and they’ve become genuine friends.”
“It was really fun,” said Help Group student Essa. “It was challenging, but the team play was great.” Help Group student, Raphy proudly shared, “The whole school can play. We’re going to keep playing together.”
Harvard-Westlake student Alessandra shared, “It’s all about inclusion and raising awareness, and today truly showed how sports can bring people of all abilities together.”
Reflecting on both events, Dr. Susan Berman, President and CEO of The Help Group, shared:
“Opportunities like these reflect the very best of what inclusive partnerships can achieve. We are deeply grateful to Curtis School and Harvard-Westlake for their commitment to fostering community through Unified programming. When students come together through sports, play, and shared experiences, they begin to see one another not through differences, but through connection.”
Across both campuses, students left with something even more meaningful than a game or event — a stronger sense of friendship and belonging.