Ithaca High School has renewed its National Banner Unified Champion School status for another four-year term. This distinction marks the highest level of achievement for Unified Champion Schools in the nation, recognizing their leadership in creating inclusive school communities where all students are accepted and celebrated. Ithaca High School is now one of only 36 National Banner schools statewide.
Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools (UCS) integrate students with and without disabilities through sports, physical education, and student-led initiatives. These programs encourage inclusive leadership and community-building, with students organizing campaigns and activities that promote unity and respect across the entire school.
“Being awarded the prestigious honor of a Unified Champion School is a testament to our community’s dedication to inclusivity and ensuring that all voices are heard, seen, valued, and appreciated,” Samantha Little, Director of Athletics and Wellness, said. “This recognition reflects the collective efforts of many, especially our scholars' commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Our district remains devoted to embracing inclusive models that benefit the entire community, highlighting our shared commitment to unity and diversity.”
To earn National Banner status, schools must meet 10 standards of excellence, demonstrating their commitment to Unified Sports, inclusive youth leadership, and whole-school engagement. Schools must also show that their inclusive programs are sustainable for the long term.
Unified Sports programs are growing rapidly across New York State through partnerships with the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA). Ithaca High School offers three unified sports programs, one in each season: unified soccer (a pilot program now in its third year), unified bowling, and unified basketball. To learn more about the history of unified sports at Ithaca High School, visit our website.
The Ithaca City School District Department of Athletics and Wellness is committed to using the interscholastic athletic experience to enhance the mental, physical, moral, social, and emotional development of our scholar-athletes. We are dedicated to providing opportunities for growth and learning while fostering collaboration with families and community partners to cultivate habits of mind and attitudes that contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling quality of life for all.