Assumption Parish School Board highlights Special Olympics and honors sheriff’s youth recreation program

Miss Nelly, a district presenter, told the Assumption Parish School Board that the 2026 Special Olympics — themed “superheroes” — drew about 84 student-athletes and focused on inclusion, confidence-building and opportunities for adapted physical education students. “This year’s theme was superheroes,” she said, adding that the event was a unified district effort that relied on staff, therapists, student volunteers and community partners.

The presentation credited Assumption Parish Schools and named community partners including Special Olympics Louisiana, the sheriff’s office, local care providers and school clubs. Miss Nelly recognized Miss Heather Tomplain (not present) for helping to spearhead the Special Olympics and said Dr. Lauren Wells, executive director for diverse learners at LDOE, participated in the event.

Sheriff Leland Falcon used the recognition segment to thank the board for supporting a separate youth recreation program the sheriff’s office runs. “This year we’re going to be in our 10th year of our recreation program,” Falcon said, adding that the program serves “about 400 kids a year” and relies on volunteers and community partners. He presented small tokens of appreciation to several board members and invited the board to pose for a photo.

Board members praised both events and the role of student volunteers. The district said photos and videos from the Special Olympics would be posted on the district website; Miss Paula DG from the high school was thanked for photography coverage.

The meeting continued with regular business after the presentations, moving next to policies and resolutions on the agenda.