Special Education students win big in team building


OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) — It was a high-energy morning for some Bennington High School students, who were joined by friends from Arlington Public Schools and Fort Calhoun Community Schools.

Wednesday was Games on the Green where students rotate through various activity stations such as bocce ball, a noodle toss and a softball toss.

“It’s not really about winning. It’s about having fun,” said Adrianna Newton.

The Bennington junior got to the point of supporting his fellow athletes in various games and also showing playful competition. The catch is that the “competitions” aren’t centered around a scoreboard; instead, the success of everyone as a team.

All games evolve at everyone’s pace and are designed for secondary school students to balance excitement and sportsmanship.

The most important goal is the development of social skills.

“These aren’t overly competitive games, but it gives you the opportunity to cheer on and have fun with other competitors,” explains Dean Wood, a Life Skills teacher.

He added that the pandemic has removed many of these important, interactive opportunities from the calendar. Therefore, Games on the Green activities are a much-needed step to build trust for the future.

“As soon as you leave high school, the real world comes your way, so just be prepared and ready to go,” Wood said.

After completing the stations, the students participated in a freeze tag game, followed by lunch and a medal presentation.