180 students with special needs participate in Cougar Relays

After a two-year pause due to the pandemic, the Cougar Relays returned to Rancho Cucamonga High School on Thursday, March 10, offering a unique opportunity for 180 students with special needs from across the Chaffey Joint Union High School District to participate in a variety of outdoor games and events.

The Relays – recent winner of a prestigious Golden Bell Award from the California School Boards Association – are designed to promote a deeper understanding of the unique talents and gifts every student offers, while building mutual appreciation, respect and rapport.

Thousands of Rancho Cucamonga High School students cheered on from the stands as participants rotated through events ranging from racing and jumping to modified games involving balls and sandbags.

“I love this event. By working together to joyously celebrate our diversity, we all grow and benefit,” said Rancho High School Principal Joshua Kirk. “The entire school community gets behind it, and the energy is incredible – especially leading into this year,”

Planning for this year’s relays began in the fall, with members of the National Honors Society, Best of Buddies and their respective advisors Kristin Herchenroeder and Daniel Fernandez taking the lead.

“This is a labor of love – our gift to our students,” Herchenroeder said.

Sofia Benigno, a senior Honor Society member, described the Relays as “an event that pbrings together kids of all ages, grades and walks of life. It brings a sense of community.

Dr. Mathew Holton, Chaffey District Superintendent and a former Principal at Rancho Cucamonga High School, said the Cougar Relays are a great example of what can happen when students are empowered to make a difference.

“Everyone involved is part of a cause that is larger than themselves. We’re so proud of how this event has evolved since its launch in 2007, into one of our most inspirational and dynamic activities,” Holton said.