Unionville Students Take the Polar Plunge

As the peak of winter cold hits Pennsylvania, most bundle up to stay warm. However, a group of dedicated students from Unionville High School does the opposite, strips off the layers, and jumps into freezing cold water for an important cause. Each February, more than forty schools across eastern Pennsylvania participate in the Cool Schools Polar Plunge, a major fundraiser supporting Special Olympics Pennsylvania. Unionville High School is proud to be one of them. Special Olympics is a global movement that provides year-round sports training and athletic competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The polar plunge is one of the many ways to support and raise awareness for this mission.

     On February 20th, Unionville students, teachers, and administration jumped into cold water to raise money for the cause. Last year, Unionville raised more than $10,000 dollars, a target that is once again aimed to hit this year. The event itself is unforgettable. As each school is announced, students line up one by one to plunge into the water while the crowd around the pool erupts with cheers from classmates, teachers, and students from other high schools. Adding to the fun, Unionville students embraced the spirit by dressing up. Last year, the team dressed as Minions, and this year they plunged as the Lorax!

     Mr. Meredith, a member of Unionville’s faculty and the coach of Unionville’s Special Olympics Bocce team, shared his thoughts on the event: "It's amazing to see our administration, teachers, and kids getting involved. It brings more awareness to Unified Sports, and it’s awesome being able to raise so much money to support such a great program.” Students involved in Unionville's bocce team echoed this sentiment, highlighting the inclusive and energetic atmosphere created by enthusiastic announcers and post-plunge dance parties as some of the most memorable moments. 

     Unionville’s tradition of supporting the Special Olympics continues. By the end of the event, Unionville High School had once again contributed thousands of dollars to Special Olympics Pennsylvania, becoming one of the top donor schools in the state. The event remains a key part of the school’s ongoing goal to expand inclusive athletics.