Over 70 schools in Montana have held, or will hold, a Respect Rally during the school year— to spread the word to end the word— and to promote inclusion.
On Thursday, Great Falls Central Catholic High School had their chance to be involved with a Respect Rally and Special Olympics Montana.
The students pledged their promise to respect and include everyone by signing their names on a poster.
Guest speakers from Special Olympics Montana spoke to the students during the rally.
The guest speakers included Special Olympics Montana athlete Betsy Schaffer and Special Olympics Health and Wellness Director Vickie Donisthorpe.
Donisthorpe said having the athletes talk at the rallies is important. She said, “The beautiful part about having athletes speak at a Respect Rally is they get to share their story and their successes.”
Great Falls Central Catholic High School Student Emily Pahut said hearingSchaffer talk put things in perspective. She said, “All of Betsy’s leadership is just really inspiring to other people.”
Pahut added, “I think that by having those speakers here we just were able to realize why it was important and everyone deserves a chance in everything that they do and opportunities are for everyone and not just specific people.”
Special Olympics Montana’s State Summer Games will be held in Great Falls once again. They are set for May 14-17.
