Winter—Star Valley’s favorite time of year—has arrived quickly and with intensity. Despite the frigid temperatures, this season brings one of the most anticipated events: the Special Olympics Winter Games. Throughout the school year, multiple rounds of these games take place, including events in the spring, fall, and winter. The winter games feature competitions such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, where students push themselves to run fast and give their best effort, regardless of the cold.

These Special Olympics events, hosted by the high school, are open to all schools, not just SVHS. While the participants love earning medals and winning, their greatest joy comes from cheering on their friends and peers. These students are among the most supportive and encouraging individuals, always lifting each other up both in and out of school. You can often find them lending a helping hand wherever needed, always with a smile.

Gallery • 2 Photos

Tabitha Olsen rushes to the finish line trying to over take her competitors in the snowshoe race on the Afton golf course. Tabitha loved getting cheered for and cheering for other people even more. "Special Olympics is fun because I get to win medals and I get to see my friends and family who cheer for me!" said Olsen.

These games not only support the students but also strengthen the school and surrounding community. They provide an opportunity for friendly competition and a chance for family and friends to celebrate the athletes’ achievements. While SVHS often hosts these events, the 2025 Winter Olympics were entirely organized by Samantha Allred, the Life Skills Special Education teacher at SVMS. The success of these events depends heavily on community involvement, with volunteers eager to contribute their time and efforts to support the students and teachers.

Teacher Sarah Carlson emphasized the impact of this event, stating, “They all had a great time and loved the support of family, friends, and the community as they showed off their well-deserved medals at the awards ceremony after the events.”

The school administrators and staff extend their gratitude to all the volunteers who make these games possible. Their support means the world to the participants and students in the community. Events like these thrive because of the generosity and dedication of the community, and having such a supportive network is truly a blessing.