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To kick off the day, representatives from the Accord and Kerhonkson Fire Departments welcomed the student-athletes for their opening ceremony parade. Rondout Valley Intermediate and Junior High School students lined the track to cheer on the participating athletes. 

The parade was followed by a number of ceremonious activities, including a special run by torch-carrying Special Olympic athletes. Dubbed the Flame of Hope Run, this symbolic act signified the beginning of the games while representing the spirit of unity. There was also a heartfelt ceremony honoring the memory of Marbletown Elementary student Jaxon Lockwood, which included the presentation of the first annual Jaxon Lockwood Award to a deserving athlete. 

The day’s competitive events featured a variety of track and field activities, including foot races, long jumps, and ball tosses. Student-athletes were supported every step of the way by dedicated volunteers from the Rondout Valley Special Education Committee, along with members of the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society. 

Every year, the competition is organized by Rondout Valley’s Special Olympics Organizing Committee. Occupational Therapist Paul Scarpati, a dedicated member of the committee, reflected on the impact of the event, saying, "The event continues to be my favorite day of the school year. It brings our entire community together to celebrate these students and their efforts. Beyond the competition events, it's the connections formed—athletes, staff, and families coming together—that make the day truly special. The impact lingers long after the event, inspiring us all to continue organizing and creating these moments of support, inclusion, and competition year after year."

According to Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services Meg Braren, the event epitomizes education at its best. “Watching our students compete, smile, and support one another is a powerful reminder of what education is truly about—fostering belonging, recognizing each child’s unique strengths, and building a community where every individual feels seen and valued.” Students, staff, volunteers, and community organizations, she noted, all contributed to the success of the event. 

The District, she added, would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to all of the donors from the event, which all showed their support for the event through their generous donations to the District.

“RVCSD remains committed to creating meaningful opportunities that bring people together and celebrate student accomplishments,” concluded Braren.