CK Burns School expands Unified Sports Program with $7,000 grant from Special Olympics Maine

CK Burns School in Saco has been awarded a $7,000 grant from Special Olympics Maine to support the Unified Champion Schools Project, significantly expanding inclusive athletic opportunities for students.

This funding will allow the school to build on the success of last fall’s Unified Soccer program by introducing Unified Basketball and Unified Bocce, as well as send a team to compete in the Unified Relay 4x100 at the York County Special Olympics Spring Games.

Unified Sports, a key component of the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools model, brings students with and without disabilities together as teammates, fostering an inclusive environment where all students can participate, grow, and develop meaningful relationships. The goal of the program is to break down barriers and create a culture of inclusion through sports.

Last fall, CK Burns School’s Unified Soccer team was met with overwhelming enthusiasm and success, setting the stage for this exciting expansion. The new sports offerings will provide additional opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, confidence, and teamwork while promoting a sense of belonging throughout the school community.

“The success of Unified Soccer last fall was truly inspiring,” said Superintendent Jeremy Ray. “This grant allows us to continue that momentum by adding other opportunities for our students to experience the joy of sports and competition.”

CK Burns School Principal April Noble emphasized the broader impact of the program.

“We are committed to fostering an inclusive school culture, and Unified Sports play a vital role in that mission,” she said. “Through initiatives like Unified Soccer, Basketball, and Bocce, as well as the Best Buddies program, students have meaningful opportunities to build friendships, strengthen their teamwork and leadership skills, and support one another in ways that extend far beyond the field. We are grateful for this investment in our school and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our students and community.”

The grant funding will help cover equipment, uniforms, travel expenses, and training to ensure the successful launch and sustainability of the expanded Unified Sports offerings. The school is eager to introduce Unified Basketball and Unified Bocce in the coming months, with students preparing to represent CK Burns School at the York County Special Olympics Spring Games later this year.