The LBPSB’s Week of Inclusion & Achievement

by Marilyn Santucci

The first week of June was filled with excitement, teamwork and celebration as students from across the Lester B. Pearson School Board came together for two major sporting events focused on inclusion and participation.

Held at Pierrefonds Community High School, the board’s Special Olympics event on June 2 and Olympic Day for Neurodivergent Students on June 8 provided hundreds of students with opportunities to challenge themselves, connect with peers and celebrate their achievements in supportive and encouraging environments.

The week began with the Special Olympics event, which welcomed high school students from across the network. Athletes showcased their skills, determination and sportsmanship while participating in a variety of activities throughout the day. The event highlighted the importance of inclusive athletics and provided students with an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities while representing their schools with pride.

Just days later, approximately 130 students from 12 schools gathered at PCHS for the second annual Olympic Day for Neurodivergent Students. Designed specifically to foster inclusion, participation and school spirit, the event featured Olympic-style activities that encouraged teamwork, perseverance and fun.

“The goal of the LBPSB Olympic Day is to create an event for those kids who for whatever reason are unable to participate in other LBPSB Elementary tournaments. The other goal for the kids is to try different sports and have moments of success and achievement. After two years of planning and running the events, I feel the LBPSB Elementary Olympic Day meets those goals, and will only get better”, says Scott Taylor, Physical Education Consultant.

Students were supported throughout both events by teachers, staff members, volunteers and families who cheered them on and celebrated their accomplishments. Whether competing, participating in team activities or encouraging their peers, students embraced the spirit of community that was at the heart of both events.

While each event served a different group of learners, they shared a common goal: creating opportunities for students to build confidence, develop friendships and experience the joy of participation. Together, the events showcased the Lester B. Pearson School Board’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed and feel a sense of belonging.

From personal achievements on the field to moments of teamwork and encouragement, both events left lasting memories for participants and demonstrated the power of sport to bring school communities together.

For another perspective, see the reporting done by Global News here: https://globalnews.ca/video/11895294/montreal-school-board-celebrates-neurodiversity-in-sports/