Supported by the Government of Ontario
More than 1,100 athletes, unified partners and educators from over 90 schools came together at the 2026 Special Olympics Ontario School Championships in London.
For three days, students from across Ontario competed alongside their peers, built meaningful friendships and experienced the power of belonging.
But School Championships is about much more than competition.
Inspired by the legacy of Special Olympics movement founder Dr. Frank Hayden, School Championships creates opportunities for students with and without intellectual disabilities to participate, succeed and belong. Through Unified Sport, Healthy Athletes programming and student leadership opportunities, young people discover what is possible when everyone is welcomed, valued and included.
“These championships are about much more than sport. They are about belonging. They are about ensuring every individual feels seen. They feel heard. They feel valued.” — Chief Thai Truong, London Police Service
The Impact
- 90+ Schools Participating in school champs
- 1100+ Athletes, Unified Partners & Educators
- 650 participating schools in Unified Champion Schools across the province
- Students with and without intellectual disabilities competing together through Unified Sport
- Youth leaders empowered to create change in their schools and communities
- Health, wellness and leadership opportunities extending beyond the classroom
The impact of School Championships continues long after the final medal is awarded. Students return home inspired to strengthen inclusive practices, expand opportunities for their peers and build school communities where everyone belongs.
“Our Youth Summit leaders are ready to start some serious changes at our school next year.” — Lord Dorchester Secondary School
More than sixty years ago, Dr. Frank Hayden’s groundbreaking research at Western University challenged assumptions about people with intellectual disabilities and helped launch the global Special Olympics movement.
“Dr. Hayden revealed that when given the opportunity, people with intellectual disabilities have the ability to develop the necessary skills to participate in sport.” — 2026 Opening Ceremonies
Today, that vision continues to shape schools across Ontario.
“They bring together youth with and without intellectual disabilities competing on the same team in Unified Sport. They show us what schools, communities and society can be when everyone feels welcomed, valued and included.” — Cody Jansma, President & CEO, Special Olympics Ontario
The Government of Ontario’s support helped Special Olympics Ontario reach more than 12,000 students across 600 schools during the 2025–2026 school year, an impact that made School Championships even more meaningful. Their investment made these experiences possible. Every friendship formed, every student empowered, and every barrier broken through School Championships is a reflection of this continued investment in inclusive sport, education and community.
Together, we are building stronger, more inclusive schools across Ontario.
