It didn’t come as a surprise that when I mentioned our potential involvement in Backyard Sports, my “Peers as Leaders (PAL)” and Community Health students jumped at the chance. What did pleasantly surprise me was the dedication and excitement they showed to the program and its young students each and every week. Backyard Sports is a wonderful program that connected our high school leaders to our Special Education students from GradyElementary School. First, the high school students were trained by Coach Danny Bernstein in necessary skills needed to coach students with special needs. The high school students volunteered their time after school for the next 6 Wednesdays to coach the younger students in soccer and team playing. The peer education experience allowed the high school students to further their leadership skills and learn from their younger counterparts. “The kids taught me how to be patient and understanding,” said high school junior Felice Aprile. Junior Tahmel Morton explained; “I learned that students with special needs are the same as us, they just learn slower.” The students built big brother/big sister relationships and looked forward to seeing each other every week. “I enjoyed Backyard Sports because of the unique experience” says junior Hugo Ortiz. “My favorite thing about BYS was seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces.” All involved were sad to see the experience end, but are eager and excited another season in the spring. “I would be involved in NYS again because I like playing sports and brightening the kids’ day,” said junior Alex Guallpa. Many Alexander Hamilton students have come up to me asking how they too can get involved. Hopefully, Backyard Sports is a permanent addition to the Elmsford UFSD community and culture. We thank Backyard Sports and Danny Bernstein for the opportunity and learning experience they have provided and look forward to another season!
~ Marisa Marks, Health Teacher, Alexander Hamilton High School
