April 9, 2025, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster, TX -- Lancaster ISD hosted its 14th annual Special Olympics track and field meet on Tuesday, April 8, featuring more than 100 student-athletes from multiple school districts. The event was filled with fun, teamwork, and friendly competition among students from Cedar Hill ISD, Lancaster ISD, Red Oak ISD, Terrell ISD, Waxahachie ISD, and Ellis County United.
The opening ceremony featured the parade of teams accompanied by the Lancaster Tiger drumline and Lancaster varsity cheerleaders. The teams marched onto the field with pride and excitement, which set the tone for the event.
The ceremony also included the presentation of the colors by the Lancaster High School JROTC, an inspiring welcome from Superintendent of Schools, Dr. A. K. Perera, an invocation from City of Lancaster Mayor, Clyde Hairston, and finally a declaration of the start of the games from Lancaster ISD Board of Trustees Secretary, Carolyn Ann Morris.
Students work throughout the school year in their Adaptive PE classes to learn the skills that will be showcased during the Special Olympics events.
“This event is so important for our students,” said Executive Director of Special Education, Crystal Cromer. “They learn these different skills all year long, and then they get awards for performing them.”
Lancaster ISD parent Amelia Smith enjoys seeing her son compete in the running events.
“This event is so important because it shows that he can do anything,” said Smith. “He is excited to compete every year. He couldn’t wait to go to sleep last night so that he could run today”
Terrell ISD teacher Devonna Ray prepares her students year-round for this event.
“This is a wonderful experience and my students look forward to participating each year,” said Ray. “We work all year and practice so they are ready to go when it is time to compete.”
For the past 14 years, Lancaster ISD has hosted this event, and it continues to grow each year.
“We started very small, but over the years, people have wanted to come to participate due to the uniqueness we bring to our Special Olympics event.”
That uniqueness includes the Tiger marching band, the LHS cheerleaders, student-athletes, and LHS student groups actively participating in the track meet. Bratton says all the participation makes for a great event.
“Our drumline and cheerleaders participating in our event has encouraged the surrounding districts to now include their drumlines. It’s great to see our program influence others.”
The Special Olympics is an event that allows everyone to get involved in creating lasting memories for students.
“It’s great to have our community members here to support. We have so many parents and it's an amazing sight to see,” said Cromer. “We have also had community members donate items like water and resources to help our families. It’s a great way for our community to come out to support our students with disabilities.”
Congratulations to all of the student-athletes on an amazing day of excellence.
View 2024 Special Olympics Tournament photos here.
