Lexington Four Early Childhood Center (ECC) was recognized for becoming a Special Olympics National Unified Champion School, becoming one of 10 schools in South Carolina to achieve this honor.

To receive the Unified Champion School banner, schools must foster an atmosphere of collaboration, engagement and respect for all students, staff and faculty.

At the beginning of the celebration, ECC Principal Sonya Harrison-Young spoke about the sense of unity at ECC, where students feel supported, valued and included.

The ECC introduced physical education classes two years ago, allowing students to not only learn the importance of physical fitness but also build friendships with peers they might not typically interact with during the day.

General education students gain leadership skills, patience and empathy while forming connections with students with disabilities.

Barry Coats, CEO and president of Special Olympics South Carolina, and Barbara Oswald, vice president of programs, attended the event and presented the school with its official banner.

In addition to parents and family members, the celebration featured special guests, including the Swansea High School cheer (unified and regular) and their mascot, who led cheers and energized the crowd.

Mason the Firefly, along with the University of South Carolina mascot, Cocky, also joined in the festivities, greeting students and staff with high-fives.

The event concluded with a parade, with students, staff and special guests marching through the halls, proudly carrying the banner and celebrating the school’s achievement.