Vallejo City Unified School District Celebrates Historic 50th Annual Special Olympics

VALLEJO, Calif. – The Vallejo City Unified School District (VCUSD) announces its 50th Annual Special Olympics, a milestone event celebrating five decades of athletic courage and inclusion for students with extensive support needs. This historic event is scheduled for Friday, May 15, 2026, with the Opening Ceremony beginning at 10:00 a.m. and events concluding at 12:30 p.m. at Corbus Field (840 Nebraska Street). Students participating are from first grade through the district's post-secondary program.

“This year’s event is especially meaningful as we celebrate not only five decades of this inspiring tradition, but also the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)—a landmark commitment to ensuring that every student has access to a free and appropriate public education. Together, these milestones reflect our shared belief in the limitless potential of every learner,” Superintendent Rubén Aurelio shared.

To properly celebrate the golden anniversary, the event has been scaled up in size and presentation. New additions to the festivities include community vendor booths offering family resources, such as face painting, community first responders, and a photo booth. Emphasizing community and inclusion, a lunch will be provided for all students, staff, volunteers, and families. The district is also ensuring full accessibility by providing Spanish translators with real-time translation packs, an alternate, quiet arrival route, and an insulated "chill room" for students with sensory difficulties.

As always, the event showcases the determination of our student-athletes. “During the Special Olympics, we celebrate more than athletic achievement. We celebrate courage, perseverance, and the power of inclusion,” the Superintendent noted. The Special Olympics Motto—“Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt”—will continue to be the day's guiding inspiration.

Schedule of Events

• 9:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.: Student Arrival
  • Students will be greeted at the main gate by a "welcome line" of ambassadors, teachers, and VIPs.
     
• 10:00 a.m.: Event Start and Opening Ceremonies
  • Welcome by Superintendent Rubén Aurelio, Executive Director of Special Education Kristen Hardy, Master of Ceremonies Patrick Cook, and City of Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce.
  • Color Guard presentation by Vallejo High School’s ROTC.
  • Special Olympics Torch Lighting by participating athletes.
     
• Following Opening Ceremony – 12:30 p.m.: Special Olympics Games
  • Three main stations: the 50-meter dash, an overhand throw with an adapted foam javelin, and hurdles, alongside an informal free-play area with adapted equipment.
  • Students will receive a Special Olympics medal for participation immediately upon completing their third rotation.
     
• 12:30 p.m.: Event End
  • An organized communal lunch gathering and simultaneous closing ceremony.

This large-scale event is made possible through the dedication of VCUSD staff, volunteers, and community partners. "We extend our deepest gratitude to the Special Olympics Committee, our dedicated staff, volunteers, families, and community partners who make this day possible year after year," added Superintendent Aurelio.