BHUSD Approves Partnership with Special Olympics Southern California

Beverly Hills, CA (May 12, 2026) – The Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) Board of Education unanimously approved a partnership with Special Olympics Southern California during the May 12th Regular Board of Education Meeting, officially launching the Unified Champion Schools program across the District beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.

The partnership reflects BHUSD’s continued commitment to creating school communities where every student is valued, respected, and supported both inside and outside of the classroom. Through the Unified Champion Schools initiative, general education students and students receiving special education services will participate together in Unified Physical Education, Unified Sports®, leadership opportunities, and school-wide activities designed to strengthen belonging, connection, and school spirit.

The program will expand opportunities for students across the District to build friendships, strengthen leadership skills, develop teamwork and empathy, and create meaningful connections through athletics, activities, and campus engagement.

Kelly Pond, President & CEO of Special Olympics Southern California, joined BHUSD Board of Education President Judith Manouchehri in accepting the resolution during the meeting on behalf of the organization and its Unified Champion Schools program.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with Special Olympics Southern California through the Unified Champion Schools program,” said BHUSD Board of Education President Judith Manouchehri. “This resolution reflects BHUSD’s commitment to creating school communities where every student feels valued, included, and empowered to thrive. Expanding opportunities for students of all abilities to learn, lead, and build meaningful connections is exactly the kind of work that strengthens our schools.”

“This partnership represents an important step forward for Beverly Hills Unified School District,” said BHUSD Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. “Unified Champion Schools will create new opportunities for students to learn from one another, compete together, and build lasting friendships through athletics, leadership, and shared experiences. We are excited to partner with Special Olympics Southern California to continue expanding opportunities for students across our district.”

District staff shared that planning efforts are already underway ahead of the 2026–2027 school year, with collaboration taking place across departments and school sites to support the launch of the program and future opportunities for regional competition and student participation.

In addition to the Special Olympics Southern California presentation, the May 12 Board of Education Meeting also included recognitions honoring the Beverly Vista Middle School Cheer Team, Beverly Vista Middle School Track & Field record holders, and the Beverly Vista Middle School Counseling Department for earning ASCA RAMP Certification.

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BHUSD Board of Education members joined by Special Olympics Southern California representatives, celebrating the District’s new Unified Champion Schools partnership.

Photo Credit: The Beverly Hills Unified School District

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For Immediate Release 
May 12, 2026

Contact: Colby Gilardian
Public Information Officer
[email protected] 
(310) 871-8246 Mobile