SAN DIMAS/LA VERNE –Under a sunny sky and with cheers of families echoing from the stands, Bonita Unified School District brought together students with special needs from across the District for its fourth annual Sports Festival on March 27, a day celebrating ability and inclusion.

The event welcomed students to Saints Stadium at San Dimas High School for a day of track-and-field-style activities, including relays, long jump, ball toss and pool noodle javelin. The day began with an opening ceremony parade for each school participating. Students smiled and waved to families filling the stands, setting the tone for a day of spirited and friendly competition.

“This is the fourth year that we’ve had the Bonita Sports Festival, and it really is a team effort led by our adaptive physical education teachers and supported by staff across departments,” said Jessicka Mears, Bonita Unified’s Senior Director of Specialized Services. “We believe all students should have the opportunity to be healthy, and this gives them a chance to practice those skills while feeling included. Education is a partnership, and it’s powerful to see families here not only cheering on their own children, but supporting all students.”

Mears added that the event reflects a deeper purpose rooted in representation and opportunity for every student.

“One of the reasons I became an educator is because I believe representation matters,” Mears said. “Events like this allow students to show what they can do — to throw, to jump, to run — and to be seen for their abilities. When our staff step in to model those skills and support them along the way, it shows students they can accomplish anything they set their mind to.”

Led by adaptive physical education teachers and supported by staff, specialists and volunteers, the event reflects Bonita Unified’s commitment to inclusive practices by creating a space where students can engage in athletics tailored to their needs.

“Our students continue to show us what’s possible when they are given opportunities to shine,” Bonita Unified Superintendent Matt Wien said. “Events like the Bonita Sports Festival reflect the heart of Bonita Unified, where inclusion is a practice. Seeing our students supported by staff, families and peers in this way speaks to the strong sense of community we are proud to build every day.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS: 

BUSD_SPORTS_FEST1: Bonita Unified School District students participate in relay races, long jump and other adaptive track-and-field events during the District’s fourth annual Sports Festival on March 27, bringing together students with special needs for a day of inclusive competition and community support.

BUSD_SPORTS_FEST2: Parent volunteers cheer on students and assist with activities during Bonita Unified School District’s fourth annual Sports Festival on March 27, supporting a day of inclusive track-and-field events designed for students with special needs.