More than 500 Atlanta Public Schools (APS) Exceptional Education student-athletes gathered in Lakewood Stadium for an exciting morning of fun competition in the APS 2025 Special Olympics.
APS has partnered with Special Olympics of Georgia (SOGA) for 30 years, and celebrated the milestone anniversary at its penultimate event, where 538 students from over 52 schools competed in a variety of track and field events and games.
In the APS Exceptional Education program, students train throughout the year and participate in smaller events to prepare for the big day. Not only do they get to track their progress, but the Special Olympics is the only event of the year where they compete and engage with their peers from other schools.
“Special Olympics brings a big aspect of community to our special needs programming,” APS Special Olympics coordinator Dr. Taka Hines said. “What’s special about the Special Olympics is that we get to highlight the accomplishments of our athletes, show their pride and joy in their athletics, and we get to give them a platform so that more people can see those gifts.”
The Exceptional student-athletes competed in events like the 50-meter dash, the long jump, tennis ball throw, and more. There was also a developmental tent filled with a myriad of games and activities.
“We had something for all the athletes,” Dr. Hines said. “I’m seeing the progress they’ve made throughout the year. We have smaller events throughout the year, but for track and field, they put a lot of effort into their running, their scores, their field events, and they get to come out here and show their parents, coaches, and teachers how much they’ve progressed throughout the year.”
APS student and staff volunteers helped facilitate the many events across the field at Lakewood Stadium like they have at the other nine events SOGA hosts for the Exceptional student-athletes. “The Exceptional Education program at Atlanta Public Schools is very supportive,” Hines said. “The athletes never have a lack of support from the staff. They’re a wonderful staff.”