Plunge for a purpose

Katlyn Aker and Joyce Semerad rallied an enthusiastic group of 42 SGHS students to take part in the Polar Plunge at Lake George.

The Tartan Plungers successfully raised nearly $6,000 to support the important mission of the Special Olympics, which funds Unified Programs in Scotia. The S-G school district has proudly provided unified bowling, unified basketball, and an adaptive physical education program, promoting inclusivity and teamwork. “This year, we also launched unified intramurals and are planning to add unified bocce next fall,” noted Athletic Director Jamian Rockhill.

The district expresses gratitude to our students, families, and community for their generous donations and support for this event. Out of our 44 participants, 36 raised over $100. Each student did an outstanding job advocating for inclusion!

The top fundraisers from S-G included:

  • Paige Beauchamp raised $650

  • Scarlett Friot raised $465

  • Isaac Furnish raised $320

The Polar Plunge stands as the largest fundraising event for Special Olympics New York, providing a unique opportunity for individuals, organizations, schools, and businesses to support Special Olympics NY athletes by plunging into the waters of Lake George! “This event is more than just a chilly jump; it celebrates INCLUSION. All funds raised go directly to our unified programs in the Capital Region,” stated Ms. Aker. “Our unified programs wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our coaches and athletics staff – Ron Ashcraft, Candra Mulligan, Andrew Swayne, Jamian Rockhill, Dave Aldi, Joyce Semerad – so many wonderful individuals who passionately commit to coaching and managing these programs within our school,” Ms. Aker continued.

As the leader of the YAC group at Scotia, Ms. Aker expressed gratitude for the unwavering effort, commitment, and compassion in promoting inclusion within our school and community. YAC, or Youth Activation Committee, aims to create an inclusive environment by advocating for respect, inclusion, and acceptance for all. YAC also plays a vital role in supporting and sustaining the Unified Sports Teams at our school, along with organizing fundraising efforts for these programs. Their goal is to cultivate and maintain a socially inclusive school atmosphere, and this group is essential in planning and executing our initiatives!

Acknowledgements

  • Our students, families, friends, staff, and the entire community for participating, supporting, and donating to this event!

  • Katlyn Aker and Joyce Semerad for co-managing this event

  • Our transportation department

  • Danielle Vaughan, life skills teacher, who aids in communication with our athletes and families!

  • Leigh Howard, director of unified sports programs through Special Olympics

  • Chris Hughes, director of development for Special Olympics, who oversees the Polar Plunge

  • Anthony Peconie, S-G Instructional Administrator for Special Education, who joined the S-G team as a first-timer, supported, and participated in the plunge!

“It was an honor to join the Tartan Plungers at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge,” remarked Anthony Peconie. “The students and staff showed great enthusiasm and support for this wonderful cause. The slogan of FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON GREAT TIME!! from the Special Olympics Lake George Polar Plunge launch page perfectly captures the spirit of the day. It was a proud moment to be a Scotia-Glenville Tartan,” he added.