Shepard H.S. POWER students set an example of inclusivity, fundraise for Special Olympics Illinois

Students at Shepard High School in Palos Heights are getting ready for a spirit-filled Special Olympics Illinois Respect Week. From February 27 to March 3, students will be encouraged to sign a pledge to be respectful and inclusive, cheer on their Special Olympics Illinois basketball team at an allschool assembly and fundraise for the Cool School Challenge, a part of Run® the Law Enforcement Torch Polar Plunge.

Then, on March 2, staff and students will gather on the football field, where a record number of participants – over 100 staff and students – will participate in that Cool School Challenge by dunking in an inflatable pool, get an icy shower or gliding across the slip-and-slide as part of the school’s seventh annual effort to support Special Olympics Illinois.

Nearly 2,000 staff and students will show support for their peers during Respect Week by dressing in hippie gear for this year’s theme: “Respect is Groovy.”

At the heart of Shepard High School’s spirit week and Cool School Challenge is the POWER mentorship program. POWER, which stands for Physical Opportunities With Exceptional Rewards, connects general education students with special education students to help them build physical and social skills, independence and lasting friendships.

Special education students are an integral part of Shepard High’s culture, where there are numerous special education programs. POWER students set an excellent example, treating their special education peers as equals and giving them the respect they deserve.

The program was founded by special education teacher Ashley Lythberg and PE teacher Scott Richardson eight years ago. Since then, it has become wildly popular among students, many of whom are currently on a waitlist. And, it has expanded beyond PE to include art and food courses.

“The POWER program has built inclusivity [at Shepard High School]” says Lythberg, who’s taught at the public school for 16 years. “The kids take ownership of [the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge]. They get out there, they fundraise, they’re passionate about it,” she says.

During this year’s challenge, the POWER Plungers team, comprised of Shepard High School students and staff, hopes to raise $15,000 to provide resources for thousands of Special Olympics athletes across Illinois.

Lythberg is no stranger to fundraising for Special Olympics. She volunteered with her mother in junior high and high school, and with their church. Like her, many students who graduate from the POWER program go on to pursue careers in special education.

And her own children – ages 7 and 9 – are following in her footsteps, taking their sixth “plunge” this year with mom and dad.

Lythberg encourages readers to support Special Olympics Illinois through the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunges and in February and March across the state. To support the POWER Plungers team, sign up for a plunge, or learn more, visit plungeillinois.com.