15-05-2025
NYC school makes history with first-ever national banner for inclusion
NEW YORK (PIX11) — Students and teachers packed the Tweed Courthouse in Lower Manhattan on Wednesday as Manhattan Public School 721M made history, receiving New York City's first-ever national banner for inclusion.
The honor, presented by ESPN and Special Olympics New York, marks the highest recognition for a Unified Champion School and celebrates the school's commitment to inclusion through sports and student leadership.
More Local News
As the banner was revealed, the room filled with applause and excitement.
'Today's a very special day for me 'cause I've been a part of the Special Olympics for around four years now,' said Mohamed Kebbeh, a 17-year-old soccer player at the school. Reflecting on the moment, Kebbeh added, 'It really meant so much to me to really have the first ever national band.'
The Unified Champion Schools program brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities to compete on the same teams, fostering a culture of acceptance and teamwork.
Stacey Hengsterman, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York, highlighted the growth of the program across the city.
'Special Olympics New York and the New York City's public schools have taken our partnership to a record level,' she said. 'In the past three years, we have grown not one unified team, and we've given the city hawks a little competition.' Hengsterman also noted, 'Now, we have more than 40 high schools and middle schools competing unified across the city.'
Coach Joe Stewart emphasized the deeper meaning behind the recognition. 'Come fly with the Hawks, look for those that are left out, and welcome them. You will benefit them as much as they will. And just like the City Hawks, you may make history together with them.'
For more information on PS721M, click here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
