- Inclusion
On International Children’s Day, June 1, Hangzhou International School (HIS) took a meaningful step forward in its commitment to inclusion, signing a Special Olympics Unified Schools partnership agreement with Hangzhou Yanglingzi School. The visit brought together the President of Special Olympics East Asia, Ms Freda Fung, alongside HIS leaders, staff, and students for a day of shared experiences and forward-looking collaboration.
The day began with a visit to Yanglingzi, where the HIS delegation explored the campus and gained insight into its innovative approach to education. With a focus on digital systems and AI-supported learning, the school offers an environment designed to empower students with diverse needs and abilities. For many in the delegation, it was an opportunity not only to observe but to connect.
As Grade 11 student, Diego C reflected, “The visit to Yanglingzi was meaningful because it gave me the opportunity to connect with students in a different learning environment and gain a greater appreciation for their unique perspectives and talents. I hope the partnership between HIS and the Special Olympics allows us to create opportunities on both ends for learning, inclusion, and lasting friendships between communities.”
This commitment to meaningful, sustained engagement is shared by faculty as well. As Dr. Emily C. Blalock, HIS university counselor, explained, “As advisor of the National Honor Society, I am excited for the members and me to learn from the students at Yanglingzi School. We are prepared to volunteer and serve each bimonthly, but we are also prepared to learn and grow. Our goal is to identify students' needs and interests, then develop long-term programs that remain sustainable well beyond my tenure at HIS. More importantly, I hope the partnership builds mutual respect, empathy, compassion, and gentleness in our HIS community.”
Central to the partnership is the philosophy of Special Olympics Unified Schools – a global initiative that fosters inclusive communities where all young people can learn, lead, and belong. Through shared sports, service, and leadership opportunities, students with and without intellectual disabilities build meaningful relationships and develop mutual understanding.
“From the visit, I feel even more excited about our partnership,” says Grade 11 student Tonya L. “Meeting some of the kids and seeing all their success and achievements was really inspiring. I can't wait to learn from them and figure out how we can bring some of what makes their school special back to our own.”
Grade 11 student Joshua C. echoed this sense of purpose: “I hope to gain a deeper insight on how the Yanglingzi community operates by caring for their special group of kids; and also build positive attributes such as compassion and responsibility, lending those who are in need an extra hand.”
This spirit of inclusion came to life during a joint floor curling activity, where students from both schools worked in mixed teams, supporting and encouraging one another. The atmosphere was defined not by competition, but by collaboration and joy – a powerful reminder that inclusion is something to be practiced, not just discussed.
He further emphasized the broader impact of the collaboration: “This partnership is bigger than any one school or organization. It’s about building a kinder, stronger, more connected community, right here in Hangzhou.”
As HIS and Yanglingzi School move forward together, this partnership represents more than a single visit. It lays the foundation for sustained collaboration and shared growth – and, most importantly, for a school community where every student is seen, valued, and included.