Left to right are Paul Boyer, Tyler Lewis, Bill Hicks, Brandon Johnson, Joshua Caden Anderson, Jessie Burton and Gael Hernandez

JACKSBORO, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – On Friday, the day before Campbell County High School’s Graduation and in front of an audience of their peers, a special recognition was given to six students.  For the first time in school history, graduating Seniors who had competed in Special Olympics were awarded an honor cord to wear at graduation.  The cord was red and white – the colors of Special Olympics International.

“The idea started after a conversation with a parent who felt that students with intellectual disabilities were not being recognized enough for their hard work,” said Brandon Johnson, who brought back Campbell County’s Special Olympics program two years ago and now serves as the program’s director.  “Our area spans three counties and multiple high schools.  We wanted to start this recognition small, and plan to expand to our entire area next school year.  This would not have been possible without the help of Campbell County High School’s all-star team of Josh Parker, Chris Sutphin, and Katherine Ayers.”

The students recognized with graduation cords were:  Joshua Caden Anderson, Paul Boyer, Jessie Burton, Gael Hernandez, Bill Hicks, and Tyler Lewis. 

To learn more about Special Olympics Campbell County, the group invites you to follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/TOTNarea14 or contact Area Director Brandon Johnson at 423.352-7595. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 05/22/2024-6AM)

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