A National Banner School* is a Special Olympics Unified Champion School demonstrating commitment to inclusion by meeting 10 standards of excellence while incorporating all three component strategies.
During the application review process, school applications are reviewed in two stages: first by state Program staff and then by a national Certifying Body of key educational leaders.
The primary activities within these standards include: Special Olympics Unified Sports, Inclusive Youth Leadership and Whole-School Engagement. Banner Unified Champion Schools should also be able to demonstrate they are self-sustainable or have a plan in place to sustain these activities into the future.
Qualifying Criteria
Unified Sports
Practice sports with Unified athletes and peers via Zoom