Bethlehem Central High School has earned National Banner Unified Champion School status from Special Olympics New York, the highest level of recognition for schools that foster inclusive opportunities for all students.

In Unified Champion Schools like Bethlehem, students with and without disabilities play on the same sports teams and take physical education courses together. National Banner designation is reserved for schools that have demonstrated excellence in creating a school environment where everyone belongs.

The high school is one of just 13 schools in New York state to receive the National Banner Unified Champion School honor this year. To earn National Banner Recognition, schools must meet 10 national standards of excellence established by Special Olympics, focused on promoting inclusion and sustainability of the Unified program.

BCHS offers students three interscholastic Unified sports during the school year: bocce, bowling and basketball. Students at the school also learn leadership skills and organize activities that engage the entire school community in an effort to encourage and promote inclusion among their peers.

“This recognition belongs to the students and staff who have nurtured the success and growth of our Unified program over the last several years,” said Superintendent Jody Monroe. “That success can be seen in the teamwork it takes to reach a championship game, or more importantly, in the friendships that are forged through opportunities that the Unified program provides.

“We are proud to be home to a National Banner Unified Champion School,” added Monroe.

Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman said the National Banner honor celebrates the “best of the best.”

“At the heart of each school’s success are the students with and without intellectual differences who have come together as teammates, friends, and leaders. Thank you, Unified Generation!”