BHUSD Approves Special Olympics Partnership

The Beverly Hills Unified School District will launch the Unified Champion Schools program across the district in the 2026-27 school year after the Board of Education unanimously approved a partnership with Special Olympics Southern California.

The Board approved the partnership during its May 12 Regular Board of Education Meeting, advancing a districtwide program designed to bring general education students and students receiving special education services together through athletics, leadership and campus activities.

Through the Unified Champion Schools initiative, students will participate together in Unified Physical Education, Unified Sports, leadership opportunities and school-wide activities intended to strengthen belonging, connection and school spirit.

The program is expected to expand opportunities for students across BHUSD to build friendships, strengthen leadership skills, develop teamwork and empathy, and create meaningful connections through athletics and campus engagement.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with Special Olympics Southern California through the Unified Champion Schools program,” said BHUSD Board of Education President Judith Manouchehri. “This resolution reflects BHUSD’s commitment to creating school communities where every student feels valued, included, and empowered to thrive. Expanding opportunities for students of all abilities to learn, lead, and build meaningful connections is exactly the kind of work that strengthens our schools.”

Kelly Pond, President and CEO of Special Olympics Southern California, joined Manouchehri in accepting the resolution during the meeting on behalf of the organization and its Unified Champion Schools program.

“This partnership represents an important step forward for Beverly Hills Unified School District,” said BHUSD Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. “Unified Champion Schools will create new opportunities for students to learn from one another, compete together, and build lasting friendships through athletics, leadership, and shared experiences. We are excited to partner with Special Olympics Southern California to continue expanding opportunities for students across our district.”

District staff said planning is already underway ahead of the 2026-27 school year, with collaboration taking place across departments and school sites to support the launch of the program.

Future opportunities may include regional competition and expanded student participation as the program develops across BHUSD campuses.

The May 12 Board of Education Meeting also included recognitions for the Beverly Vista Middle School Cheer Team, Beverly Vista Middle School Track and Field record holders, and the Beverly Vista Middle School Counseling Department for earning ASCA RAMP Certification.