Cherokee High’s Dani Katsaros (left to right), Cherokee alum Nicholas Ori, TAP student JJ Sirianni, TAP teacher Kate Maloney and TAP student Keira Healy in front of the U.S. Capitol building.
Lenape Regional High School District students last month represented Special Olympics New Jersey at Capitol Hill Day in Washington, D.C., to advocate for national Unified Sports programs in schools.
Transition to Adult Program (TAP) students Keira Healy and JJ Sirianni, Cherokee High senior Dani Katsaros, TAP teacher and coach Kate Maloney and Cherokee alum Nicholas Ori shared their experiences in Unified Sports, which serves athletes with and without intellectual disabilities.
The visit was an opportunity for the Lenape delegation to engage with state and national legislators to share their insights on Unified Sports in the school district.
Unified Sports programs promote inclusivity and teamwork, while fostering personal growth and understanding. During the D.C. event, students met with New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Andy Kim. The students also highlighted the friendships and leadership skills gained through Unified Sports and emphasized the need for continued support and funding.
“The students returned home inspired,” Maloney said. “(They are) committed to breaking down barriers and fostering inclusion through sports. Their participation in Capitol Hill Day showcased the power of student advocacy in creating a more inclusive society.”
