06-03-2025
Inclusive Youth Leadership Summit held in Southeast Kansas
MCCUNE, Kan. — Folks with Special Olympics Kansas are teaching the next generation of students about the importance of leadership.
More than 65 students from seven schools attended the Inclusive Youth Leadership Summit at Lodge 400 in McCune.
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Middle and high school students with and without disabilities were paired up with peers to discuss various leadership and inclusion experiences they could bring to their own school.
Some ideas include student-run businesses on campuses, like coffee shops or slushy stations.
What makes this event so unique, is that it's only done at one other location in the entire state of Kansas.
Volunteers take the 'Polar Plunge' for Special Olympics Kansas
'To me really, it's good to be a leader,' said Myah Norton, Girard High School student.
'Always include others because you don't know, what they're going through. You don't know what's going on in their life. But even just saying hello can make someone's day,' said Stephanie Fees, Iola High School student.
'It's just a good environment to be in. You're surrounded by people who have the same goals excuse me, have the same goals as you,' said Augi Mooneyham, Girard High School student.
'I love being able to teach them things about what they have and just having fun with it,' said Bailey Glaser, Girard High School student.
Students also got a chance to hear from different speakers with disabilities, and how they're making a difference in their communities.
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