On Thursday, April 25, John F. Kennedy Memorial High School held the All-Star Track Meet. Students with disabilities across multiple schools and programs in Woodbridge Township, came together to participate in various athletic activities. The event became even more memorable since it had last occurred five years ago.
Vice Principal Mr. Caroscio wanted to revive the track meet after COVID-19 halted it.
“I thought it was the right time to bring it back,” Mr. Caroscio said. “Everybody has been looking forward to it for a while and I was fortunate enough to take the lead and bring everybody together. It wouldn’t have happened without a lot of people supporting bringing this event back.”
Physical education teachers Mrs. Doran and Mr. Bergando also had a large part in setting up the track meet.
Students arrived at JFKMHS in buses and were immediately motivated by cheers from Mustang cheerleaders. Following the greetings, the JFK marching band performed the national anthem to begin the events.
JFK administrators, teachers, staff and students volunteered to help run the meet. Throughout the day, Principal Dr. Parry and Mr. Caroscio walked around and monitored the event. Teachers and staff operated various obstacle courses and stations for the students to take part in. The athletes raced, danced and played games. Students were able to pet chickens, bunnies, a goat and a dog named Darius.
Staff members’ days were fulfilled after watching the students run around and have opportunities they typically wouldn’t be able to have.
“They don’t get a chance to do a track meet,” Woodbridge Township Mayor John McCormac said. “They don’t get a chance to compete like this in their everyday lives, so the school and all of the volunteers, and all of the great teachers putting this event on for them is a defining moment for them in their lives.”
Each athlete received a medal and got to eat lunch before heading back to their schools at the events conclusion.
