Laurens County School District 55 Athletes Shine at Area 5 Special Olympics

Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) is proud to celebrate the incredible spirit, determination, and athleticism of our students who participated in the Area 5 Special Olympics. On Friday, March 20, 2026, students from across the district gathered at Presbyterian College to compete, represent their schools, and show what inclusion and perseverance truly look like in action.

The journey to the games was guided by dedicated Unified Physical Education coaches from Laurens District 55 High School (LDHS): Erin Patterson, Jawon Stephens, and Miranda Langston. Their commitment helped prepare and support our student-athletes every step of the way. The event was also filled with encouragement from teachers and staff across the district who either cheered on the LDHS team or led their own school groups, including Sharon Wormley at Sanders Middle School, Anna Kate Taylor and Elisabeth Gansz at Hickory Tavern School, and Randy Vinzant, Coach Caine Swaggert, and Georgianna Martin at Laurens Middle School.

“Special Olympics is important because it gives students with disabilities a chance to compete, be included, and feel successful,” said Coach Erin Patterson. “It promotes acceptance and shows that everyone belongs. For our students, it opens doors to opportunities they may not always have—like being part of a team, competing, and being celebrated for their abilities.”

“Special Olympics provides an opportunity for our students to feel fully accepted in a warm and supportive environment,” added Randy Vinzant. “It’s a chance for them to give their best in an athletic setting where every effort is recognized.”

For Laurens Middle School students, the experience was especially meaningful. Watching their excitement and pride as they competed was unforgettable. The events challenged them, but their determination paid off. Seventh grader Ellie Porter, for example, started her first race feeling nervous, but finished with a huge smile and a boost of confidence that carried far beyond the track. In that moment, she saw what she was capable of.

All participants are winners; however, the district celebrates several standout performances:

• Zariah Lee, 8th grade: 2nd place (50m run), 1st place (100m walk)
• Da’Naisha Fuller, 7th grade: 1st place (50m run), 1st place (100m run)
• Angel Moultrie, 8th grade: 2nd place (50m run), 3rd place (100m run)
• Ellie Porter, 7th grade: 2nd place (50m walk), 1st place (100m walk)

“I felt great! I was scared and nervous, but I made it,” shared Zariah Lee.

Da’Naisha Fuller added, “I felt good because we were representing our school and class. I got to compete with other kids. People should support Special Olympics because it’s fun, and you get to do things you enjoy.”

Mr. Vinzant noted that Fuller is already excited about returning next year. Although he has taken students to the games before, 2026 marked the first year his class officially participated as a group.

“It is such an honor to be the teacher of this outstanding group of students,” said Vinzant. “This year, they’ve been recognized for academics, attendance, and growth on district assessments. Their participation in Special Olympics shows them that with effort and determination, they can achieve anything.”

“I love seeing our students participate because you can truly see their joy, confidence, and growth,” Patterson added. “It’s powerful. This is about more than sports—it’s about building confidence for life.”

Special Olympics continues to have a lasting impact by building confidence, improving physical and social skills, and creating meaningful connections. It teaches teamwork, communication, and independence while celebrating every student’s abilities.

Through opportunities like this, Laurens County School District 55 remains committed to Building a 5-Star Culture of Excellence. By fostering an A+ atmosphere rooted in inclusion and support, the district ensures that every student has the chance to grow, succeed, and be celebrated.