April 23 marked one of the most anticipated events on the Bethpage Schools calendar: the 9th annual district-wide Autism Acceptance Faculty Dodgeball Tournament. Held in the gymnasium at Bethpage High School, the tournament brought together teams of staff members from all five district schools, competing in the spirit of inclusion and community.
The event raises money for the district's Extended School Year (ESY) Program summer social, which unites ESY students with special needs from neighboring districts for a day of fun and community at Bethpage High School each August.
All five schools – Bethpage High School, JFK Middle School, Charles Campagne Elementary School, Central Boulevard Elementary School, and Kramer Lane Elementary School – fielded teams and battled fiercely for tournament honors. Each team wore coordinating colored t-shirts made especially for the occasion, featuring phrases of support and inclusion printed on the back, including The Power of Acceptance is Limitless and Until All the Pieces Fit, surrounded by jigsaw puzzle pieces bearing each school's initials.
After a spirited competition, JFK Middle School once again claimed victory, defending its title and taking home the coveted tournament plaque.
The gymnasium was packed with families from across the district cheering enthusiastically – many wielding handcrafted signs. SEPTA was on hand selling refreshments and lawn signs, while Superintendent Dave Schneider and Director of Technology Andrew Choi served as referees. Through raffles and door donations, the tournament raised $4,323 for the ESY Program.
