The Socorro Independent School District continued its long-standing tradition of hosting the 35th annual Spring Games in memory of James P. Butler at the Student Activities Complex in March.
More than 1,200 students with special needs participated in the much-anticipated event.
The games featured 270 track and field events, including 10- and 25-meter walks, assisted walks and 25, 50, 100, 200 and 400-meter runs, relay, and wheelchair races with and without assistance, and a unified relay race.
Students also enjoyed the new Fun Zone after they finished their event.
“Today is really about students coming together and having a day of friendly competition,” said Analia Jansen, Special Education director for SISD. “It’s just all about having fun.”
Parents, families, teachers, students, volunteers, and community members were on hand to cheer on the student-athletes and assist with the events.
Estela Gatzk, parent of a Montwood High School freshman, said her daughter has been participating in the games since middle school.
“It’s pretty awesome here and the energy is wonderful,” said Gatzk. “Everyone is very supportive, we’re here to support all the kids, not just our own.”
Parent Sarah Castillo was at the event to support George Puentes and Domonic Castillo, students at Myrtle Cooper Elementary School.
“They did amazing!” Castillo said. “It’s awesome to see all these students be so resilient.”
Elementary students competed first in the morning and secondary athletes (middle and high school) competed in the afternoon.
“I like the spring games,” Christian Duran, a sixth-grade student at Capt. Walter E. Clake Middle School. “I enjoy being with my friends, running and eating snacks.”
Both sessions began with a mini parade featuring athletes, SISD administrators, teachers, staff, and volunteers.
Tessie Robert, an adaptive physical education coach who has proudly been serving the district and its students for over 30 years, was excited to cheer on the kids, including her son, a sophomore at Americas High School. “We’re excited to be here,” Robert said. “It brings me tears of joy to see so many kids participating. This is super special for all of us, especially to see as parents.”