Students. teachers, family and volunteers come together to embrace a special day
Energy pulsed through the air as Pierce County Middle School (PCMS) staff made last-minute preparations for this year’s Bear Games. Students from prek to high school filed onto the field just after 9 a.m., bustling with excitement.
The PCMS Track had been transformed into an Olympic arena, inviting student athletes to participate in activities like the 50 meter dash, sack race, javelin throw and more.
Attendees were welcomed by PCMS Principal Amanda Gay and School Superintendent Dara Bennett. PCMS student, Samiya Minott, led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a performance of the National Anthem by McKenzie and Kerrigan Barclift. Jeffrey Taylor of Pierce County High School (PCHS) gave the Bear Games Oath.
This year’s torch runners included Asher Gibson and Ivy Rawls of Blackshear Elementary, Malik Gibbs of Midway Elementary, Brooklyn Howell of Patterson Elementary, Qua’nya Phillips of PCMS and Bentley Alday of PCHS.
The Rev. Dr. Justin Gambrell served as the master of ceremonies, assisted by Grand Marshals Landon Hayes and Kater White, both seniors at PCHS.
After a morning of games, the athletes made their way to the cafeteria for lunch, which was provided by First Baptist Church of Blackshear.
Many students from PCHS volunteered at the event, helping Bear Games athletes with various activities.
Jasmine Sergent said the reason she volunteered because she wanted to “help special needs kids out.”
Sergent called the experience “amazing” and loved working with the lively Dorcas Harris, who taught Sergent some sign language.
“[The kids] just get to have so much fun,” said Sarah McIntosh, Director of Student Services.
“Lots of smiles…they get to run and play and be free and be themselves.”
McIntosh has worked in the Pierce County School system for 23 years. This is her fifth year in special education, though she remembers being part of the team to originate the Bear Games (then called Special Olympics) in 2008.
PCHS senior Landon Hayes had a lot of fun acting as this year’s Grand Marshal.
“At least I didn’t have to worry about being trampled by (other participants on the field),” said Hayes.
He appreciated those who came out to play in the games.
“It’s a special time for special needs people like myself to come out here.” When asked about his plans after graduation, Hayes mentioned an interest in the Roosevelt Warm Springs residential facility of vocational learning.
“Or maybe stay in Blackshear,” continued Hayes, “because Blackshear is nothing without me.”
Pierce County Schools’ Parent Mentor Robbie Beahan commented that the Bear Games provides a unique opportunity not only for the students to feel honored and special, but for the parents of these children as well.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony in the PCMS gymnasium. Students, teachers, parents, and volunteers listened attentively as each athlete earned their Bear Games Medal.
