Unified Students Take the Plunge for Inclusive Schools

Unified students from Humboldt High School, Washington Technology High School, Focus Beyond Transition Services and Hidden River Middle School joined their peers, teachers and supporters for a mobile polar plunge on April 30 at Humboldt. Part of Special Olympics Minnesota, the Cool School Polar Plunge was the first in Saint Paul Public Schools history, with over 150 plungers registered and over $7,500 raised. The money raised will go back into each school's Unified programming.

"The most important things happening in our schools aren't happening on a scoreboard or on a test. They are happening when two students realize they have the exact same sense of humor, the same drive to win, and the same nerves before jumping into a freezing pool of water," assistant superintendent Heidi Nistler told the crowd before the plunge. "Saint Paul Public Schools has become a leader in inclusion because you chose to make a difference."

The first plunger was Angel Robinson, a Central High School alum and professional basketball player. Dozens of students, teachers and other staff followed her lead, climbing up the steps and jumping into the freezing cold water. It was a memorable morning for all involved!

The next SPPS Unified event is a districtwide track and field day on May 12 at Harding High School.