Eight Avon Avenue School students earn multiple medals while making history for district
NEWARK, N.J. – When Avon Avenue School Health and Physical Education Teacher Jacqueline O’Connor first proposed taking a team of student-athletes to the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games, she envisioned much more than medals and podium finishes.
She envisioned an experience that would build confidence, independence, and lifelong memories for students with special needs.
That vision became a reality earlier this month when eight Avon Avenue School student-athletes in grades four through eight traveled to The College of New Jersey in Ewing to compete in the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games. The students returned home with numerous medals, including several gold medals, after competing in track and field events such as sprints, relays, softball throw, and javelin.
The Avon athletes, listed below, brought home a total of 15 medals: nine gold, four silver, and two bronze.
- Zamir Foston – Silver Medal in the 50-Meter Dash and Silver Medal in the Softball Throw
- Josiah Chapman – Gold Medal in the 50-Meter Dash and Gold Medal in the Softball Throw
- Arianna Brookins – Gold Medal in the 50-Meter Dash and Silver Medal in the Softball Throw
- Amanda Nieves – Gold Medal in the 50-Meter Dash and Gold Medal in the Softball Throw
- Nervenson Ferdinand – 4th Place in the 50-Meter Dash and Bronze Medal in the Long Jump
- Lewis Scott – Gold Medal in Javelin and Bronze Medal in the 50-Meter Dash
- Cesar Perez – Silver Medal in the 50-Meter Dash and Gold Medal in Javelin
- Kalyah Mann – Gold Medal in the Long Jump and Gold Medal in the 50-Meter Dash
For O’Connor, who helped bring the opportunity to Avon Avenue School during her first year in Newark Public Schools, the most meaningful victories took place far from the competition venues.
“Even if they had not won a single medal, the experience would still have been worth it,” O’Connor said. “Many of our students had never stayed away from home without their families, never visited a college campus, and never had the opportunity to interact with thousands of athletes from across New Jersey. They gained confidence, independence, and friendships. Watching them encourage one another and connect with athletes facing similar challenges was incredible.”
The Summer Games featured approximately 4,000 athletes competing in a variety of sports, including track and field, swimming, softball, tennis, and other events. Participants also took part in opening ceremonies, recreational activities, health screenings, and social events throughout the weekend.
Principal Kinyetta Bird said witnessing the students’ experience firsthand was unforgettable.
“It was one of the most beautiful experiences I have ever witnessed,” Bird said. “The students were celebrated like Olympians. They walked into a packed stadium, experienced the opening ceremonies, saw the torch lighting, stood on podiums to receive their medals, and formed friendships with athletes from all over the state. What stood out most was their joy and their kindness toward everyone they met.”
Bird also praised the dedication of O’Connor and Health and Physical Education Teacher Bryce Lewis and speech therapist Alexandra Nicholson who volunteered to spend the entire weekend supporting the students.
“They did this entirely for the students,” Bird said. “Their commitment reflects the heart of Newark Public Schools. They gave their time, energy, and care to ensure our students had an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives.”
For Lewis, the medals were only part of the story.
“As rewarding as it was to see our students come home with medals, my priority was for them to experience the Games,” Lewis said. “Being there was humbling. We spent time together outside of school, explored a college campus, met athletes from different backgrounds, and watched our students grow in confidence throughout the weekend. Those are the moments that stay with you.”
The Summer Games appearance followed the students’ successful performances at the Essex County Special Olympics competition, where they qualified for the state-level event. Principal Bird hopes this year’s success will encourage greater participation across Newark Public Schools in the future.
“My goal is to see more students and more schools involved next year,” Bird said. “Special Olympics creates opportunities for students to be seen, celebrated, and included. Every student deserves that experience.”
Superintendent León congratulated the students and staff on their achievement.
“These student-athletes represented Avon Avenue School and Newark Public Schools with pride, determination, and excellence,” Superintendent León said. “While we celebrate their impressive performances and medal-winning achievements, we are equally proud of the confidence, independence, and personal growth they demonstrated throughout this experience. I commend Ms. O’Connor, Mr. Lewis, Ms. Nicholson, and Principal Bird for creating an opportunity that our students will remember for a lifetime.”
Board of Education President Hasani K. Council said the students’ success reflects the district’s commitment to ensuring all students have access to meaningful opportunities.
“The Special Olympics Summer Games embody the values of inclusion, perseverance, and belonging,” Board President Council said. “We are proud of these outstanding student-athletes and grateful to the educators who made this experience possible. Their achievements remind us that when students are given opportunities to shine, there is no limit to what they can accomplish.”