Emily Reese, director of special education, along with athletic director Ryan McKenna, Shawnda Hopkins and Shelli Vardaro recently teamed up to bring Barnstead its very first Unified Middle School Basketball Team. After their first game against Alton Middle School on Feb. 21, Reese commented, “This was some of the most fun that I have ever had. It reminded me what an amazing community of students, teachers and staff we have here at BES.”
When asked about the participants, she smiled and said, “Our unified kiddos were in their glory and their peers were exemplary citizens, unwavering in their support, patience and kindness.”
Reese continued on to say that she is most grateful to their athletic director, Ryan McKenna, for his support and organization.
“Having people like Ryan and Shawnda recruiting players and Shelli volunteering her time and expertise is what makes this possible,” Reese said. “We have such good people over at the Barnstead Elementary School and I am humbled to work with everyone there and to be part of such a rewarding program.”
The large turnout of students, teachers and parents who came out to cheer them on was a tribute to their efforts and to the effective leadership that Reese is fostering at the Barnstead Elementary School for all students, regardless of their abilities.