Sun Valley High School in Aston was one of 10 Pennsylvania schools recognized by Special Olympics for its work to be inclusive in sports and leadership activities.

It received the National Banner Unified Champion School title.  Only 121 schools in the entire country received this honor, writes Julia Hatmaker for pennlive.com.

“We are so proud of all of these schools for their commitment to inclusion and for earning this national recognition,” said Matt Aaron, Special Olympics Pennsylvania President & CEO. “These institutions set a wonderful example for other schools around the state; and, we are thrilled to have the third highest number of schools honored this year among the 121 recognized in 36 state programs.”

To become a National Banner Unified Champion School, these schools had to meet 10 standards of excellence.

They had to offer a fully-inclusive sports or fitness program with an even mix of students with and without intellectual disabilities.

The schools must also have at least two activities that promote inclusivity involving the entire school.

Other Pennsylvania schools received the title include Springfield Township High School and Upper Merion Area High School in Montgomery County,  and Pennridge High School in Bucks County.

Learn about this designation here.