TOWNSEND — Superintendent Brad Morgan and Varnum Brook Elementary School (VBES) Principal Ami Dolan are pleased to share that the school was recognized by state officials and Special Olympics Massachusetts during an assembly that highlighted VBES’ ongoing progress.
On Tuesday, Oct. 22, VBES students, staff and administrators participated in an assembly where the school was recognized for its efforts in creating a kind and inclusive environment.
The ceremony began with student representatives from each class carrying in the “I AM” chain. The paper chain is made up of more than 750 links. Each link was designed by a student or staff member within the VBES community.
Staff members in attendance wore the school’s specially designed “Better Together” shirts.
Principal Dolan gave a brief address during the ceremony, highlighting the chain made by students and how it represents VBES’ individuality and connectedness. She also celebrated the students and staff for their committed work in furthering the community through advocacy, inclusivity and kindness.
Students from the school’s friendship program SIDEKICKS and members of Student Council also spoke about the importance of friendship, inclusion, and kindness at VBES.
State Representative Margaret Scarsdale and Sen. Edward Kennedy’s Chief of Staff Patti Kirwin-Keilty each presented the school with a citation.
Makayla Parris from Special Olympics Massachusetts also spoke to the students and presented the school with its National Banner. In September, VBES was recognized by Special Olympics North America as one of only 19 Massachusetts Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools. The school was given this recognition for its ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and inclusive environment through sports. The banner, recognizing VBES as a Unified Champion School, will now be proudly hung in the school lobby.
The school chorus closed out the assembly by leading the entire student body in song, singing “Let the Games Begin!”
“It was an honor to celebrate our school and the wonderful students and staff for the work they do to spread kindness and respect throughout the community,” said Principal Dolan.
“We are extremely grateful to Sen. Kennedy, Rep. Scarsdale and Special Olympics Massachusetts for recognizing our students, faculty and staff of VBES,” said Superintendent Morgan. “Our VBES community has done outstanding work to create a positive learning environment built around inclusivity and progress. It is a privilege to know that those outside of the community recognize VBES’ dedicated work as well.”
