Cherokee Student Athletes Compete in Special Olympics

More than 300 Cherokee County School District students descended into River Ridge High School for the annual Cherokee County Special Olympics on Wednesday.

The special education student athletes competed in various events across the campus and enjoyed an Olympic Village-inspired area with fun activities. 

The student athletes were joined by more than 500 student and adult volunteers from district schools and the community, who were there to assist them and coordinate events. 

The Olympics are organized by school district adaptive physical education teachers Dave Martinez and Amy Aenchbacher.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Frank R. Petruzielo participated in the opening ceremonies, along with student athlete Hunter Estep of Etowah High School. 

Hunter read the Special Olympics oath, "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

“These athletes are inspiring to everyone here today – they love to compete, and we all love to cheer them on,” Dr. Petruzielo said.  “As a school district, we believe that every student should have access to academic and athletic challenges to help them grow in their knowledge and ability, and our special education students certainly rise up to those challenges and exceed them.”

Dr. Petruzielo noted that Cherokee County School District special education students consistently exceed state averages on standardized tests, excel locally in athletics and at the Georgia Special Olympics and show artistic talent through the PTA Reflections Contest Special Artist Category and other opportunities.

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