At the Ottawa Catholic School Board, inclusion was never a checkbox. It was a way of being. It lived in classrooms, shone on sports fields, and filled celebrations with joy. This commitment came to life once again during the 20th Annual OCSB Special Olympics Swim Meet, a milestone event that celebrated belonging, community, and student achievement.
Over two incredible days, more than 400 student athletes from East-end schools took to the pool at the Nepean Sportsplex, cheered on by classmates, staff, families, and volunteers. From the first whistle to the final race, the atmosphere was filled with excitement, encouragement, and pride. Every splash told a story of perseverance, teamwork, and joy.
As Kristal Hines, Educational Assistant at St. Clare School, shared, “What I loved most about the OCSB Special Olympics Swim Meet was the strong sense of community it fostered. The whole day was about the kids, their energy, their smiles, and the joy on their faces as everyone cheered them on. That uplifting spirit was what continued to draw me back each year.”
For 20 years, the OCSB Special Olympics Swim Meet had been more than a competition. It was a celebration of inclusion, ability, and the power of community.
Inclusion in Action
At the OCSB, every student was encouraged to feel seen, supported, and celebrated. The Board’s inclusive approach meant that, whenever possible, students with special needs learned alongside their peers. While some required more specialized settings, the goal never changed: to ensure that every learner had the opportunity to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.
That belief was evident at the swim meet. The athletes were not just participants. They were teammates, leaders, and celebrated champions. The joy in the building served as a powerful reminder of what was possible when students were given the opportunity to belong, succeed, and shine.
A Community-Led Celebration
The success of the event reflected the power of collaboration. The Special Education and Student Services Department, in partnership with school Resource Teams, coordinated the celebration with support from Special Olympics Ontario. Committee Chairs Mark Henniger and Anne Frazer provided leadership and dedication that ensured the event’s continued success.
Approximately 50 Special Education staff members shared their expertise and care throughout the two-day event, creating a safe and joyful experience for everyone involved.
The compassion and enthusiasm of 40 student volunteers from St. Patrick’s and St. Paul’s High Schools elevated the experience even further. These students cheered from the deck, assisted with races, and supported athletes in ways that were both meaningful and inspiring. Their kindness reflected the best of the OCSB community.
The Board also extended gratitude to Special Olympics Ontario and the City of Ottawa, particularly the Nepean Sportsplex, for their ongoing partnership and support. Their collaboration ensured that this event remained a highlight of the year for students, families, and staff.
More Than a Swim Meet
The Annual OCSB Special Olympics Swim Meet was more than a competition. It was a celebration of ability, belonging, and community spirit. It represented the values that guided the OCSB every day: that every student mattered, and that when we lifted each other up, we all rose together.
