COVINA, CA – More than 350 Covina-Valley Unified students with exceptional needs, from transitional kindergarten through the Adult Transition Program, gathered at the District Field on Feb. 5 for the second annual Sports Festival, a high-energy event centered on inclusion, accessibility, and community. 

Students sported their schools’ shirts as they rotated through a variety of activity stations, including frisbee golf, javelin throw, basketball, soccer courses, bean bag toss, long jump, ribbon dance, and races, along with sensory areas, face painting, and cool-down spaces. Students earned bracelets and medals, heading home with flair and smiles.

“It’s important to create spaces where our students can thrive and have a good time,” Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Dr. Josie Paredes said. “Every student deserves a space where they feel safe and where they can just have fun and feel a true sense of belonging.”

Parents filled the stands to cheer on students, while school administrators, teachers, aides, and staff joined in alongside Associated Student Body members, Best Buddies, cheerleading teams, and even the Covina High School mascot, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and celebration.

“The joy of the event was contagious,” Paredes said. “There was so much excitement and pride as students represented their schools. It truly felt like a community event, with everyone coming together to support and celebrate our students.”

The festival concluded with a Closing Ceremonies parade, as students walked the District track alongside their schools and banners, followed by a picnic lunch before returning to their campuses.

Led by the District’s Special Education Department, the Sports Festival was made possible through a collaborative, interdepartmental effort. The Transportation department coordinated student travel, Nutrition Services provided lunch, Facilities prepared the field and tents, and staff from across departments volunteered to run stations and support students throughout the day.

“The Sports Festival was an incredible way to celebrate our students and honor who they are,” Interim Superintendent Dr. Jonathan Blackmore said. “Seeing students feel confident, supported, and proud to represent their schools reflects the heart of this District’s commitment to inclusion, belonging, and student well-being. Thank you to everyone who made this event a success.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

CVUSD_SPORTSFESTIVAL1: More than 350 Covina-Valley Unified students with exceptional needs gathered at the District Field on Feb. 5 for the second annual Sports Festival, a high-energy event centered on inclusion, accessibility, and community. 

CVUSD_SPORTSFESTIVAL2: Parents, school administrators, teachers, aides, and staff cheered on Covina-Valley Unified students with exceptional needs at the District’s second annual Sports Festival on Feb. 5.