Amsterdam High School has been recognized by the New York State Special Olympics as a National Unified Champion School for 2020-2024. The banner was awarded at the Greater Amsterdam Board of Education meeting on Oct. 20.

AHS was the only high school in the state to earn this recognition this year along with some 70 schools and universities nationwide. To be named a Unified Champion School an educational institution must demonstrate an inclusive school climate and exude a sense of collaboration, engagement and respect for all members of the student body and staff.

A school must also demonstrate commitment to inclusion by meeting 10 national standards of excellence developed by a national panel of leaders from Special Olympics and the education community.

The primary activities within these standards include: Special Olympics Unified Sports (where students with and without disabilities train and compete as teammates), Inclusive Youth Leadership and Whole-School Engagement. Access the following link to learn more about this honor:

https://www.specialolympics.org/our-work/unified-champion-schools/banner-recognition-program