Jefferson County's leadership summit fosters inclusion in schools

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — Through a partnership with the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities and Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, schools in the county are participating in a leadership summit.

Students with and without developmental learning disabilities are coming together for interactive presentations, arts and crafts challenges, to embark on a new leadership journey.

Director Christy Peters says what students take home is also important.

"This is a discussion-based item that students come home with, they talk to their families about it, and it really makes this real and something that becomes a part of their life forever," she said.

"This is an integrated activity that’s going to take place in sports next school year,” said Michael Zeno, Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities. “It’s going to start with flag football and probably expand to bowling basketball bocce, but inclusion – it’s all about inclusion. And that will create a wonderful tomorrow."

Fifty students from four different school districts in Jefferson County participated in the summit, along with adult mentors.

The goal is to continue the conversation of inclusion within the schools to create a better learning environment for all.

To learn more, click here.

Volunteers are always needed.