East Students Promote Belonging During 14th Annual “Spread the Word to End the Word” Campaign
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- High Schools
- SRSC
The Downingtown High School East (DHSE) chapter of Best Buddies International brought students, staff, and community members together for its 14th annual Spread the Word to End the Word campaign on Friday, September 18, during the East football game.
A Bright Show of Support
Attendees filled the stands in neon colors as a visible show of support for belonging. The global Spread the Word initiative, led by Best Buddies International and Special Olympics, raises awareness about the harmful effects of the “R-word” and promotes acceptance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
“Our annual Spread the Word football game and tailgate truly showcase the heart of Downingtown High School East,” said DHSE Life Skills Teacher and Best Buddies Co-advisor Regina Sheehan. “It is incredibly powerful to see our campus come together in a sea of bright colors, standing united by a simple, vital truth: our words hold immense power.”
Sheehan added that the event celebrates inclusion and reminds the school community of the importance of respect and genuine friendship.
Honorary Captains Take the Field
As part of the evening’s activities, the East football team named Billy Barger and Zach Westermann, both members of Best Buddies, honorary captains. They joined the team for its pregame activities and participated in the captains’ ceremony before kickoff.
Building a Culture of Belonging
“At Downingtown High School East, our Best Buddies program is leading the charge for a more inclusive campus,” said DHSE English Teacher and Best Buddies Co-advisor Amy Rowe. “Today, we are wearing our brightest neon colors as a visual reminder that our words carry weight.”
“By spotlighting the importance of respect for every single member of our school community, we hope to build a culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and truly belongs,” Rowe added.
Best Buddies International is a nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, leadership development, integrated employment, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with and without IDD.
The DHSE chapter meets throughout the school year and organizes activities designed to strengthen friendships, develop student leadership, and promote belonging across the school community.