Wonder Warriors set to be torchbearers

May 28--Southeastern Stokes Middle School Exceptional Children's class will be traveling to Greensboro on Thursday, June 4 to be torchbearers for the Flame of Hope in the Unified Relay Across America, which will eventually end in Los Angeles, California for the official 2015 Special Olympics Games.

The nine students participating are: Garrett Altman, Zack Blankenship, Ethan Comer, Dillion Davis, Kevin Duggins, Natalie Eaves, Aaron Groce, Anthony James, and Jacquelyn Wilson.

Their teacher Laura Aldridge and assistant Twila Williams will be joining the group along with language facilitator, Heather White and principal, Rhonda Jackson.

"This is a first for all of us, and as far as I know, a first for our county to participate in the official Special Olympics ceremonies," Aldridge said. "We raised a total of just over $1500 in donations to participate in the event."

The teacher said funds were raised between February and the beginning of April by family, friends, and church members.

Aldridge said she's privileged to teach special needs students and see firsthand their loving spirit and desire to learn.

"They fight many battles without complaint and instead give smiles and hugs in return. They amaze me every day."

She believes participating in the event is meaningful for the school and class because it raises awareness to the students' needs and allows them to participate in a once in a lifetime experience.

"The children were very excited when they found out. I don't think it's quite hit them yet what it's really all about. It will be exciting to see their reactions when we get there and they get to see it for real," she said.

The students are slated to start the walk at 9:48 a.m. on New Garden Road in Greensboro on the corner of Greenlee Road and will end in front of New Garden Friends School.

Amanda Dodson can be reached at 336-813-2426 or on Twitter at AmandaTDodson.

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