Bush Hill Elementary School in Alexandria has been named to the 2025 ESPN Honor Roll, recognizing its efforts in inclusive Unified Special Olympics programming. This marks the second time Bush Hill has received this distinction and the title of Special Olympics Unified Champion School.
The recognition was jointly given by ESPN and Special Olympics North America, highlighting Bush Hill’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity. The school offers several programs, including a Unified Basketball Team that hosts an annual tournament each January and a Peer Mentoring Program that has been active for nearly ten years. In addition, Bush Hill is entering its seventh year participating in the Little Feet Meet, a track-and-field event where students with disabilities compete alongside general education peers. Training for this event occurs twice weekly during the school day over two months leading up to the meet each May.
“We are incredibly proud that Bush Hill Elementary has been named an ESPN Honor Roll School,” said Principal Mary Duffy. “Earning Banner status as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School for the second time reflects years of dedication to inclusivity, teamwork, and meaningful partnerships. Our Unified program isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are. The spirit of inclusion is woven into our culture and celebrated by our entire community, and this recognition honors the hard work and heart our students, staff, and families bring to our school every day.”
Approximately 10% of Bush Hill’s nearly 700 students participate in self-contained special education programs. The school’s Unified Special Olympics activities align with Goals 2 and 4 of the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan by providing equitable access to extracurricular opportunities and fostering an environment where all students feel supported.
A national banner presentation ceremony hosted by ESPN, Special Olympics North America, and Special Olympics Virginia will be held at Bush Hill Elementary in 2026 to mark this achievement.
Additionally, Carter G. Woodson High School and George C. Marshall High School—both part of Fairfax County Public Schools—also earned Unified Champion status in 2025.
