The Port Jefferson School District recently celebrated the success of its First Annual Unified Field Day and Choose to Include Day, a culminating event that brought together students who participated in Unified activities throughout the school year while promoting a school-wide message of acceptance, inclusion, and belonging.
Organized by Kristen Wendel, Michelle Landetta, and Gina Fedler, the event highlighted the district's ongoing commitment to fostering friendships, social inclusion, and student leadership. Throughout the year, students participated in Unified Sports programs, including Unified Golf, led by Wendel; Unified Bowling, led by Landetta; and Unified Basketball, led by Fedler. These programs unite student-athletes of all abilities, creating meaningful connections and leadership opportunities across the student body.
In addition to athletics, students participated in a Peer Leadership Summit, where they developed leadership skills and explored ways to create more inclusive school communities. This year also marked the creation of Port Jeff PALS, a program designed to strengthen the friendships formed through Unified Sports. Through activities such as games, cooking experiences, and Earth Day planting projects, students continued building relationships beyond their sports seasons.
Students in grades 6-12 who participated in Unified programming throughout the year gathered for the district's inaugural Unified Field Day and Choose to Include celebration. Students enjoyed a spirited game of rounders, cooled off with ice pops, and were cheered on by classmates who created posters and showed their support from the sidelines. The event served as a powerful reminder that inclusion is not just a one-day initiative, but a value that strengthens our entire school community.
The afternoon was filled with laughter, teamwork, and unforgettable moments that reflected the true spirit of Unified programming and the message behind Choose to Include Day. The success of this inaugural event serves as a powerful reminder that when students come together in an inclusive environment, friendships flourish and everyone belongs.
For more information regarding the Port Jefferson School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website at https://www.portjeffschools.org and follow its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PortJeffSchools.
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Port Jefferson, NY Patch
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