Hopatcong Teacher Helps Special Olympians

Strand couldn't strand them.

Hopatcong teacher Eric Strand has visited the New Jersey Special Olympics several times. The middle school history teacher and avid skier went again in February, assisting athletes in alpine events at Mountain Creek in Vernon.

"Some of these kids are really great skiers," Strand said in a release. "I'm in awe of their determination and will to succeed."

More than 100 special-needs athletes attended this year's event. Strand helped skiers in slalom, giant slalom and other events at different skill levels.

"I have had a positive experience every time I have attended the games," he said. "As volunteers, we come away energized by our participation."

Last September, Strand about the importance of 9/11.