GGUSD Celebrates Student Abilities with 53rd Annual Special Games

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

More than 700 Garden Grove Unified School District (GGUSD) Special Education students from 19 schools competed in Olympic-style competitions during the district’s 53rd annual Special Games on Friday, May 3 at the stadium at Bolsa Grande High School. The event is organized by the district’s Adapted Physical Education Department.

When the district’s 700 student athletes arrived at the stadium, they were greeted with roaring cheers, high-fives, and shouts of encouragement from student leaders from the district’s eight high schools. The event opened with welcoming remarks which were followed by the National Anthem sung by Pacifica High School student Nicol Martinez and signed by students in the district’s MS program. The pledge of allegiance was led by Pacifica High School student Ayanna Rivera. The popular high school mascot race and torch relay officially kicked off the games.

Approximately 400 student leaders from the district’s eight high schools volunteer to run Special Games events, including relays, softball toss, soccer kick, football throw, basketball, face painting, dance and more. This year’s Special Games also included participation from the district’s Unified Physical Education programs.

Board of Education President Teri Rocco, Vice President Lan Nguyen and Garden Grove City Councilmember Stephanie Klopfenstein attended to support the event.

“Special Games showcases the heart of our GGUSD community and all we do to cheer for each other, build each other up and celebrate the hard work and abilities of ALL students,” said Board of Education President Teri Rocco.