UISD Hosts Exceptional Olympics Opening Ceremony 

The United ISD Special Education Department kicked off the 10th Annual UISD Exceptional Olympics with a high-energy Opening Ceremony Tuesday morning at the Sames Auto Arena, celebrating the achievements and abilities of nearly 1,000 student-athletes.

Hundreds of students, families, educators, and community members filled the arena to cheer on participants in one of the district’s most anticipated events of the year. For the second consecutive year, the ceremony was held indoors at the arena, providing a more comfortable experience thanks to the support of the City of Laredo.

The ceremony featured a vibrant parade of schools led by principals, alongside special education teachers, cheer teams, bands, spirit clubs, and mascots. The event also included a torch run accompanied by local law enforcement, culminating in the lighting of the Flame of Hope —officially signaling the start of the week-long competition.

Athletes from Harmony School of Innovation joined UISD students this year, expanding the spirit of unity and cooperation.

“This is a way for us to showcase everything our exceptional students are learning and doing,” said UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz. “I’m very proud of our special education department and all of our teachers, aides, and adaptive P.E. staff who go above and beyond to meet the needs of our students. You can feel the excitement and positivity in the air. There’s no better place to celebrate student achievement than at United ISD.”

UISD board members and district leadership were also present to support the athletes. Each of them waved at the students as they made their way around the arena in a parade of spirit and pride.  Board Members Michelle Molina, Dianelle Martinez and Rodolfo Gonzalez participated in the festivities.

The Exceptional Olympics continues to grow each year both in participation and community support.

“We’ve been doing this for 10 years, and every year it gets bigger and better,” said Miguel Chávez, UISD Special Education Coordinator. “This event promotes inclusivity and gives our students the opportunity to compete, something they prepare for all year long. It’s an amazing experience for families and the entire community to come together and support these athletes. The students are very competitive, and they love to win medals —so they are ready for the Games to begin.”

Track and field events will take place throughout the week at the UISD Student Activity Center (SAC), where students will compete in a variety of adaptive athletic competitions.

Exceptional Olympics Week Schedule:

Tuesday, March 17

Cherish Center & Adult Male Students — 11:00 AM (Field Events at SAC)

Wednesday, March 18

Middle Schools & High Schools — 9:30 AM (Field Events at SAC)

Thursday, March 19

Elementary Schools — 9:30 AM (Field Events at SAC)

The UISD Exceptional Olympics highlights the importance of participation, determination, and community spirit and gives every student the opportunity to shine.

“Our goal for the UISD Exceptional Olympics is to empower every athlete to grow in confidence, improve their physical and social skills, and experience the joy of competition—while building an inclusive community that celebrates every ability,” adds Chávez.