Cape High honored as Outstanding Unified Champion School
Cape Henlopen High School has been named the 2025 Outstanding Unified Champion School by Special Olympics Delaware, recognizing the school’s commitment to inclusion, respect and leadership opportunities for all students. The award was presented during Special Olympics Delaware’s Night of Heroes ceremony, held Oct. 22 in Newark.
Cape High was one of 10 honorees recognized at the annual event that celebrates individuals and organizations across the state that go above and beyond in supporting Special Olympics programs and promoting inclusion.
The Outstanding Unified Champion School distinction highlights a public school that actively engages students with and without intellectual disabilities in inclusive sports, youth leadership and whole-school engagement activities. Through programs like unified sports and the school’s Best Buddies chapter, Cape Henlopen High School has fostered an environment where every student feels valued and supported.
“This recognition means so much to our district,” said Dr. Jenny Nauman, superintendent. “Not only is it a testament to our students and staff, but a reflection of the heart of who we are at Cape — a community that leads with inclusion, compassion and teamwork. We want to give our sincerest thank you to our coaches, educators, families, and especially our students, athletes and partners alike, who show the Cape spirit of inclusion and excellence every day. You remind us that true victory isn’t measured in points or medals, but in the connections we build and the joy we share together."
Nikki Mowbray, senior director of Unified Champion Schools at Special Olympics Delaware, noted the continuous growth she has seen at Cape High, saying, “The Cape Henlopen High School Unified programs continue to grow each year, giving students opportunities to compete, connect and lead together. This recognition serves as a testament to Cape Henlopen’s ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive school culture where every student has the opportunity to shine.”
Cape High has been involved with Special Olympics Delaware for about 15 years, and the district has participated for over 25 years. Cape currently offers three DIAA unified sports: flag football, basketball, and track and field. Cape Henlopen High School also has a Best Buddies chapter and hosts the largest district-wide bocce tournament in the state each fall. In the 2024-25 school year, the district launched a unified middle school sports competition to include all three middle schools. The winter competition was a Hoops for All basketball tournament, and the spring 2025 competition was a Unified Cup Soccer Tournament, both hosted by Mariner Middle School.
“Each year, we strive to offer new, inclusive opportunities for our students and our community. We are proud of our efforts because of the impact we have witnessed them having on the lives of our students,” said Dr. Eileen Baker, supervisor of inclusive programs. “This award motivates us to continue these efforts and to set our goals even higher in supporting the Special Olympics. It’s a true celebration of all our students' accomplishments, and of the friendships that have been built and continue to grow among all our students.”
