Spread the Word 2024

Schools across Florida celebrated Spread the Word Day this week, dedicating themselves to creating an environment where all people are respected and treated with dignity. Since its creation more than a decade ago, Spread the Word Day has grown into a global movement promoting inclusion and working to end discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities.

Here are just a few of the highlights from this year’s celebration:

• Broward County Public School officials recognized Spread the Word through a district-wide resolution. The resolution was distributed to all district staff, students, and families. At Hollywood Park Elementary, a Unified Champion School National Banner winner, school leaders celebrated the accomplishments of students with disabilities at the 25^th annual “Just Do It! I Did!” awards.

• At Weeki Wachee High School organized a Unified basketball game.

• In Hillsborough County, Durant High School partnered with Turkey Creek Middle School to celebrate inclusion with a DJ and games.

• At Limona Elementary School, students and teachers discussed the importance of inclusion and signed an inclusion banner.

• In Alachua County, students at the University of Florida displayed their commitment to inclusion by signing the Pledge to Include!

Thank you to everyone who has chosen to stand with the athletes of Special Olympics Florida. Together, we can build a world where all people are treated with dignity and respect and given the opportunities they deserve.