Eula High named Unified Champion School, lands spot on ESPN Honor Roll

EULA, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – At Eula High School, inclusion isn’t just an idea—it’s a way of life. Now, the school’s dedication to unity and acceptance has placed it in the national spotlight, earning prestigious recognition for its efforts to bring students together and show what it means to truly unite a school community.

Hard work pays off—and that holds true for the Unified Pirate Crew at Eula High School.

This program partners with Special Olympics Texas, bringing together students with and without intellectual disabilities to promote inclusion and acceptance across the school, community and state.

After four tireless years, the school has achieved the distinction of being named a National Banner Unified Champion School. But that’s not all—they’ve also earned a spot on ESPN’s Honor Roll.

Kami Dodds, sponsor for the Unified Pirate Crew, said this is a monumental milestone.

“This is huge. Most people don’t know where Eula, Texas, is. They have no idea that we even exist. We’re not much of a community outside of our school. So, our school comes together as a community,” Dodds shared. “We’re blessed. We get to see God’s hand at work every single day, both big and small. This is just proof of what he can do and how he can change lives and communities, regardless of how big or small they are.”

During halftime of the varsity girls’ game at Eula High School on February 4, Special Olympics Texas staff presented the team with a national banner and an ESPN plaque to celebrate their incredible achievement.

“One of the coolest things about this is that a lot of our athletes and partners are involved on campus, but this really makes them well-known. They are someone. They are seen for the person that they are on the inside and for their true capabilities, and not just for their disabilities and their differences. It’s leveled the playing field, and it’s just really made everyone grow on campus and become the best versions of themselves, and it’s been beautiful to be a part of.”

To earn National Banner Status, schools must meet ten national standards for inclusion. According to Special Olympics, high schools must fulfill the following criteria:

1. Unified Sports is offered in at least 2 seasons throughout the school year.
2. Unified Sports participation occurs regularly over the course of each sports season or school term and includes competition.
3. An adult coach for each sport who has received training in Special Olympics Unified Sports.
4. Unified Sports is officially recognized by the school in a similar style as other athletics/activities.
5. Unified Club or student group offers leadership opportunities/training for students with and without intellectual disabilities.
6. The inclusive club/group meets at least once per month throughout the school year.
7. The inclusive club/group has an adult liaison and is officially recognized by the school in a similar style as other clubs/activities.
8. At least two whole-school engagement activities are implemented per school year.
9. Students with and without disabilities are involved in planning and leading the awareness activities.
10. The school is currently self-sustainable or has a plan in place to sustain the three components into the future.