Cibola High School Making Strides in Inclusion

In recent decades, we have seen drastic changes in access to education for children with disabilities and inclusive environments for students with Down syndrome.  

Supportive legislation, determined parents and educators willing to make changes have created opportunities for children with Down syndrome to thrive in educational and social settings. The continuous work to expand these opportunities is far from over, but we are seeing huge strides in schools and districts including here in our Albuquerque community.

Cibola High School staff and students are a leading example of how students with disabilities can get the most out of their school experience, in and out of the classroom.

The school hosts a Special Olympics Unified e-sports program and an academic career experience (ACE) course offers students a chance to explore personal and career interests, aptitudes and abilities including personal management of time, health and finances, responsible workplace behavior and job mentoring/coaching. 

You’ll also find students with Down syndrome on the sports fields and courts as team managers, and on the stage performing with the choir. Here, students are included in a variety of programs and clubs.

Recently, freshman football player Derek Barreras padded up and played in his first game taking the opening handoff of the game for a 45-yard touchdown. He was celebrated by both his team and opponents Volcano Vista High School. See the replay here>>

Thanks to the staff, students, coaches and parents of Cibola High School for helping create an inclusive and supportive environment for students of all abilities!