Elementary Best Buddies unite for new bocce program

Bocce team members

Haine Elementary School has partnered with Special Olympics Pennsylvania to launch the area’s first elementary-level Unified Bocce program. This exciting initiative brought together students from Haine Elementary’s third and fourth grade Best Buddies group to participate in eight weeks of bocce activities in an inclusive setting.

Throughout the program, students worked on teamwork, skill-building and sportsmanship, culminating in a friendly and competitive tournament on the final day. The championship team earned extra physical education time as a reward for their hard work and dedication.

Coaches for Haine Elementary’s Unified Bocce team are Ms. Ashley Salman, Haine Elementary physical education teacher, and Ms. Ashley Nardone, Haine Elementary School counselor.

“We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful for the opportunity to create an environment where all students can grow, learn and thrive together,” said Ms. Salman and Ms. Nardone.