The Marion County Board of Education recognized a group of student-athletes on Monday evening for their participation in the annual Sequatchie Valley Special Olympics event, held Friday, May 8, at Bledsoe County High School.
During the board’s monthly meeting on May 11, 2026, members honored the student athletes ranging from grades kindergarten through 12th grade who represented the district in the annual event. The athletes come from schools across Marion County and competed alongside students from Sequatchie County Schools, Bledsoe County Schools, and Grundy County Schools.
Marion County Schools’ student-athletes recognized for participation in the 2026 Special Olympics event on May 8th, pictured with Dr. Mark Griffith and Ms. Becky Bigelow at the Marion County Board of Education meeting May 11, 2026 – (Photo Courtesy Marion County Board of Education)
Dr. Mark Griffith, superintendent of Marion County Schools, and Assistant Director of Schools and Director of Exceptional Education Becky Bigelow were on hand to recognize the athletes before the school board and celebrate their accomplishments.
The Special Olympics event gives students with intellectual and physical disabilities an opportunity to compete in athletic activities, demonstrate sportsmanship, and build confidence through participation and teamwork. Events typically include track-and-field style competitions (50 and 100 meter walks and dash, softball throws, standing long jump, etc.) and other adapted activities, and team events designed to encourage inclusion and achievement for all participants.
The Sequatchie Valley Special Olympics are held each spring, usually in May, with hosting duties rotating among the participating school districts each year. Marion County hosted the 2025 event at Whitwell High School, while this year’s games were hosted by Bledsoe County at the school’s football field in Pikeville.
School board members and public in attendance applauded the students and their coaches for their participation and representation of Marion County Schools during this year’s competition.
