Cheers, high-fives, and sportsmanship – there’s nothing quite like the energy sports can bring to a school community. For a group of districts in Northeast Nebraska, on a very special day, this energy makes everyone feel like a champion. 

Spring Sprints, a day-long track meet designed just for special education students, provides a meaningful and real sports experience for more than 200 students every spring semester. Mirroring traditional track and field, this celebration modifies each event to be accessible and inclusive for all students. 

On this day, eager groups of volunteers, passionate teachers, and loving families fill the stands of the Wayne High School track and rally around these student-athletes. Families meet their athletes at the finish line, classmates cheer from the sidelines, and spectators snap photos making everyone feel like a superstar. For many, the event is a rollercoaster of pride and love as determined athletes give their all on the track to the roar of supportive fans. 

Though Spring Sprints may have been designed for special needs students, it has had a lasting impact on all Wayne students and the community. Teachers and parents agree, hosting this joyful event complements their inclusive school culture. Watch how these student-athletes demonstrate their strength, rally support from their peers, and inspire an entire community.