The Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus launched its first Special Olympics Young Athletes program this year, bringing students together with children ages 2 to 7 with intellectual disabilities for weekly sports-based activities centered on fun, connection and service.

About 25 Bartram student volunteers dedicated Saturday mornings throughout the winter and spring, hosting eight sessions that introduced basic skills such as running, kicking and throwing while building social skills including sharing, taking turns and following directions. As the weeks progressed, tentative first meetings gave way to high fives, hugs and excited reunions as relationships formed.

Bolles Head of Middle School Bartram Campus Josh Bauman said the program allowed students to learn about intellectual disabilities firsthand while developing empathy and perspective.

"Our students brought energy and joy and showed exceptional patience, flexibility and compassion," Bauman said. "It was powerful to see how thoughtfully they connected with their athlete buddies and how excited families were to return week after week."

Student volunteers shared reflections during a Bartram Campus convocation on April 27, pointing to increased confidence and independence among the young athletes and personal growth among the volunteers as they learned more about inclusion and service.

For many volunteers, seemingly small moments became lasting memories, including first spoken words, growing comfort in new environments and visible pride from athletes and their families.

“At first, I thought Special Olympics was just about helping kids with disabilities play games and have fun,” said Anastasia ’30. “But throughout the experience, I began to learn it actually has a big impact on them because it helps them build confidence, feel included and be proud of their abilities.”

Bauman also credits adult coaches—middle school drama teacher Michael Fritton and his wife, Wanda Fritton, coordinator of inclusion and belonging Michael Stephens and Bolles Assistant Head of Middle School Jackie Willingham—as well as Special Olympics partners who supported the effort.

“I’m incredibly proud of how the students and faculty served,” Bauman said. “This experience showed the kind of impact they can have in their communities, and we’re excited to keep building this program.”