Granite Hills High hosts district-wide event promoting inclusion and school spirit
Apple Valley, California (High Desert News Online) — The Apple Valley Unified School District (AVUSD) held its 6th Annual Field Day on March 12 at Granite Hills High School (GHHS), celebrating students with special needs and the spirit of inclusion that continues to strengthen the High Desert’s school community. The event brought together 246 students from across the district, supported by 295 student volunteers, staff members, and families who turned out to cheer, assist, and participate in a full morning of activities.
Top Areas Covered
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AVUSD’s commitment to special needs education and inclusion
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Granite Hills High School’s leadership in Unified Champion programs
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The role of student volunteers and staff in fostering community values
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Historical background of Field Day in Apple Valley schools
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Expansion of Special Olympics partnerships in the High Desert
The annual Field Day, hosted at Granite Hills High School since its inception, stands as one of the district’s most unifying events. Each year, students from Apple Valley High School, Desert Knolls Elementary, Phoenix Academy, and Sitting Bull Academy join their Granite Hills peers for a morning filled with games, sports, and friendship.
The celebration began with a warm welcome as students arrived by bus and were greeted by lines of teachers, parents, and volunteers. From tricycle races featuring administrators to friendly basketball and bowling games, every part of the blacktop became a hub of activity. Organizers emphasized teamwork and shared joy throughout the event, closing with a picnic-style lunch that allowed families and students to connect beyond the classroom.
Granite Hills High School’s recognition as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School underscores the commitment of AVUSD to strengthening inclusion through youth leadership and school engagement. These programs encourage students of all abilities to learn and play together, breaking down barriers through shared experiences.
Over the past six years, Field Day has grown from a small district gathering into a much-anticipated yearly tradition. According to district officials, it serves not only to support students with moderate to severe needs but to provide valuable interaction for volunteers and future educators. The event is now viewed as a model for community-building efforts throughout the High Desert region.
Video Production students from GHHS captured the highlights of the day, producing a recap video now available on the AVUSD YouTube Channel.
As Apple Valley schools continue to champion programs that bring students together, events like Field Day remain a bright reflection of community values — compassion, service, and teamwork — that define local education in the High Desert.
