The annual Bulloch Special Olympics Spring Games event brought together elementary, middle and high school students from across the county, along with volunteers, educators, and families, for two days centered on inclusion, competition, and celebration.

Thanks to the continued support of AJIN Georgia, students competed in a variety of events, including the 50- and 100-meter runs, as well as throwing competitions such as softball, tennis ball and javelin.

But for organizers, the day represents something much bigger than competition.

“This is the population that doesn’t always get something that’s just for them,” said Patty Johnson, a teacher at William James Middle School and one of the event’s organizers. “We wanted to create something where they are on equal footing with everyone else where they can be celebrated and cheered on.”

“It’s a day for them where someone really cheers them on and shows that excitement for them,” said Jessica Anderson, co-organizer and teacher at William James Middle School. “They have a send-off at their schools before they come here. The general education population lines the halls and cheers them on as they leave for this event, just to show them they’re excited and proud.”

“To see everything come together is amazing,” Anderson added. “It takes a lot of time and preparation, but seeing everybody come out laughing, having a good time and enjoying that time with volunteers, it’s super special.”
Student volunteer Kailyn King from Portal Middle High School assists a participant during a throwing event at the Bulloch County Special Olympics Spring Games.
Students arrived to an atmosphere of support that began before they even reached the field. Schools across Bulloch County sent participants off with hallway celebrations, as classmates lined the halls to cheer them on before boarding buses to the event.

That same energy carried into the stadium, where volunteers from multiple schools and organizations helped run events and support athletes throughout the day.

Volunteers included students from Statesboro High School’s Beta Club, Art Club and Teaching as a Profession program, along with Bulloch Academy and Georgia Southern University.

“We’ve had students come back multiple years and request to be with the same groups,” Johnson said. “They’re building relationships, and that’s what makes this so special.”
Students from Bulloch Academy share a moment with a participant during the Bulloch County Special Olympics Spring Games, offering encouragement and support throughout the event.
Organizers say the event also plays an important role in shaping school culture by encouraging understanding and acceptance among students.

“This gives them a chance to see how fun, kind, and genuine these students are,” Johnson said. “The more our kids are accepted at school, the better the environment is for everyone.”

Throughout both days of competition, athletes were met with constant encouragement from peers, teachers, and volunteers whether crossing the finish line, attempting a throw or simply participating.

Moments of celebration could be seen across the field, from high-fives after races to smiles shared between students and volunteers.
Dr. Julie Mizell greets a student with encouragement during the Bulloch County Special Olympics.
The event concluded with a recognition ceremony honoring six students participating in their final Spring Games, a milestone marking the end of their time in the program.

Each student was escorted onto the field by family members and presented with a commemorative plaque and a flower in recognition of their achievements.

Honorees included:

• Matthew Jackson
• Reginald “RJ” Polite
• O’Zion Sneed
• Bailee Tangney-Jenkins
• Hayden Dosier
• Nicholas Dyches

Each student was recognized not only for their participation in Special Olympics, but for their personal journeys through school from favorite classes and activities to their plans after graduation.

Several students will continue their next chapter through Project SEARCH, a program that provides workforce training and internship opportunities for young adults with disabilities.

A teacher and student make their way around the track during the Bulloch County Special Olympics Spring Games, closing out a day centered on encouragement, inclusion and celebration.
As the honorees completed a final lap around the track, applause from the crowd echoed across the stadium, creating a powerful send-off that reflected years of growth, perseverance and support.

The event was made possible through the efforts of the Bulloch County Special Olympics Committee, along with support from local sponsors, volunteers, and community organizations.

For organizers, the impact of the day goes far beyond medals or results.

“It’s about giving them a day that’s truly theirs,” Johnson said. “A day where they feel supported, celebrated, and proud.”