Taking the Plunge for Inclusion

Each March, students and staff across Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7 take the plunge in a tradition that is not only fun, but one that also supports Special Olympics programs while promoting inclusion. 

It’s an event that has continued to grow in participation in each of the last six years. 

“When I first started, it seemed like it was mostly teachers doing it,” said Kayla Magruder, who oversees the district’s Polar Plunge efforts. “Now we’re seeing so many more students getting involved, which is exactly what we hoped would happen.” 

The growth has also been reflected in the fundraising efforts. This year, District 7 surpassed $41,000 for Special Olympics, making an even bigger splash than last year’s record total of $31,211.55.  

While the funds go directly to Special Olympics at the state level, they help support programs right here in District 7, including Unified sports teams, Respect Week activities, and opportunities for students with and without disabilities to compete, lead, and participate together. 

For many students, especially at the high school level, the connection between the Polar Plunge and the programs it supports is something they see firsthand throughout the school year. Funds raised help support Unified sports teams, while also providing uniforms, equipment, and opportunities for students to compete in regional and state competitions. 

These programs bring together students with and without disabilities, helping build friendships and a stronger sense of belonging across schools. Through Unified sports and schoolwide inclusion activities, students learn the value of teamwork, leadership, and supporting one another both in and out of the classroom. 

“When people hear Special Olympics, they often think of sports,” Magruder said. “But it’s really about inclusion. Our schools are Unified Champion Schools, where students with and without disabilities are involved together in sports, leadership, and school-wide engagement.” 

While the cause is meaningful, the event itself is designed to be fun. Schools hold their own fundraising incentives and friendly competitions. This year, some younger students got to spray teachers with water guns, while at Lincoln Middle School, the team of students that raised the most money earned the honor of throwing 150 water balloons at Principal Michael Cory. 

“I think people look forward to the Polar Plunge each year because it’s fun and silly,” Magruder said. “But it also brings everyone together.” 

Beyond the fun, Magruder hopes the event helps students understand the importance of creating inclusive school communities. 

“I hope students and staff realize they are directly helping create a more inclusive school environment,” she said. “The more we include everyone, the stronger our school community becomes.”