- December 7, 2025
A student hands a basketball to Braydon Powell during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Flynn Robert McAndrew runs during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Abigail Jiloty jumps a hurdle during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Austin Norman rolls a ball down an inflatable chute during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Clayland Gilman crawls out of an inflated tunnel during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Audriana Aylward plays basketball during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
A banner hangs within sight of the events during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Paxton Rinyu, Christians Hepburn and Abigail Jiloty run during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Chase Kennedy works on his building skills during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Teacher Joan Wheeler blows bubbles for her students Abigail Jiloty, Emmersyn Burgess and Adriana Aylward during Pathways Elementary's special olympics on Thursday, May 23. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Pathways Elementary students participated in their school's special olympics celebration on Thursday, May 23.
The students took part in each of the six stations, which included basketball, soccer and obstacle courses as part of the Young Athlete's and Little Elite programs, said teacher Pamela Wheeler in an email. The special olympics also featured sensory activities like a ball pit, a bounce house and fake snow.
"Inclusive education is an important focus at Pathways," Wheeler said. "... Students of all abilities participated in this event and demonstrated the teamwork and friendships at Pathways Elementary that continue to help build our inclusive environment."
Several community members from the Special Athlete's organization, Ormond Beach Police Department, Volusia County Sheriff's Office and some Seabreeze High School students lended a hand for the special olympics as well. Donnie's Donuts provided treats after the event.
"Seeing the students’ and parents’ smiles provided a warm and fuzzy feeling to all," Wheeler said.
