Oakdale High School has achieved Maryland Unified Champion School status for the first time, marking a significant milestone for Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). This recognition was celebrated during the school’s Homecoming Pep Rally on October 15. With this latest accolade, Oakdale High becomes the ninth FCPS high school to receive this honor, joining Brunswick, Catoctin, Gov. Thomas Johnson, Linganore, Middletown, Tuscarora, Urbana, and Walkersville high schools.
The Maryland Unified Champion Schools initiative, managed by Special Olympics Maryland, acknowledges schools that foster inclusion and belonging by creating opportunities for students with and without intellectual disabilities to engage together in sports and various activities. FCPS Superintendent Dr. Cheryl L. Dyson expressed enthusiasm for Oakdale High’s achievement, emphasizing the district’s commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for all students to connect and belong.
In addition to the nine schools recognized as Maryland Unified Champion Schools, three FCPS institutions-Catoctin High School, Gov. Thomas Johnson High School, and Tuscarora High School-have also earned National Banner School recognition. This distinction highlights schools that exceed the standard in promoting inclusive sports and activities. The Maryland Banner Recognition Program encourages schools across the state to pursue this recognition annually by implementing key components such as Unified Sports and Activities, Inclusive Youth Leadership, and Whole-School Engagement.
FCPS high schools currently offer three unified sports programs: tennis in the fall, bocce in the winter, and track in the spring, further enhancing opportunities for student participation and engagement.
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