WEST COLUMBIA, SC – Cayce Elementary students, teachers, and staff came together Tuesday morning for the school’s first Unified Day. As a Unified Champion School through Special Olympics South Carolina, Cayce Elementary’s goal was to provide an opportunity for students with and without disabilities the chance to build confidence, self-esteem, resilience, sportsmanship, and awareness for others.
The day kicked off with a parade of athletes through the school’s hallways, followed by opening ceremonies; activities including cornhole, basketball, football, and others; lunch provided by Trinity Baptist Church; and a closing ceremony. The day also included special guests, among them Chad Terrell, a member of the University of South Carolina football team.
“This event is a great way to show that every student at our school is represented,” said Principal Andrew Drozdak. “We love the opportunity to showcase our students.”
Assistant Principal Ashley Caulder helped coordinate the day’s event.
“The students did an excellent job practicing inclusion through the different events, and the school was a unified team,” she said. “Students, staff, parents, and community members alike were an integral part of the success of this event. It was a great day – as always – to be a Cayce Griffin!”