Leading with Inclusion

Winnacunnet High School Recognized Nationally

These two incredible honors highlight schools that are leading the way in creating inclusive environments where all students feel respected, valued, and supported. Through Unified sports, inclusive leadership, and whole-school engagement, Winnacunnet is showing what it truly means to be #Unified.

What It Means to Be a Unified Champion School

A Special Olympics Unified Champion School® creates an inclusive school climate that exudes collaboration, engagement, and respect for all members of the student body and staff. Schools that receive national banner recognition have demonstrated their commitment to inclusion by meeting 10 national standards of excellence—standards developed by a national panel of leaders from Special Olympics and the education community.

These standards focus on three core areas:

• Unified Sports®: where students with and without intellectual disabilities train and compete as teammates
• Inclusive Youth Leadership: where students take the lead in promoting inclusion throughout their school community
• Whole-School Engagement: where the spirit of inclusion is celebrated and shared by everyone on campus

Schools recognized at the national level are also expected to sustain these efforts year after year, reapplying for banner status every four years to ensure continued commitment to inclusion.

A Culture of Inclusion at Winnacunnet

At Winnacunnet, inclusion isn’t just a program—it’s part of the school culture. Through Unified teams, student leadership, and events that bring the whole school together, the Warriors continue to build a community where every student belongs and every voice is valued.

“We are incredibly honored and excited to be recognized as a Special Olympics National Banner School! At Winnacunnet High School, we remain committed to expanding meaningful opportunities for students with and without intellectual disabilities to learn, lead, and grow together. With every new opportunity comes greater understanding, confidence, skill development, and most importantly lasting friendship.”

— Brandon Albert and Olivia Bissey, Transition Program Teachers and Unified Sports Coaches

The passion and creativity of the Winnacunnet High School students and the dedication of educators like Brandon and Olivia—show that inclusion at Winnacunnet is more than a moment; it’s a movement.

Way to go, Warriors — and thank you for showing the power of inclusion in action! 💙

💫 See the full list of recognized schools:
https://www.specialolympics.org/what-we-do/unified-champion-schools/banner-recognition-program