Written by
Dee Loflin SMT Manager/Writer
Dexter, Missouri – The Dexter Public Schools hosted the Goodwill Games for Stoddard County Schools once again this year. It has been a springtime tradition for special needs students. Normally the event is held outside; however with the unusual rainy weather this season, they opted to move the event indoors to the Bearcat Event Center.
The games offer students with special needs the fun, adventure and the thrill of crossing the finish line in the form of athletic competition. Cadet Teachers who are Dexter High School students helped these youngsters reach their goals and succeed in each event. Each high school student works one-on-one with the student athlete, encouraging the athlete and helping celebrate his or her victory.
What a special day it was for these youngsters. They even had a surprise visit from “Bearcat”! Children of all ages competed in relays and bean-bag tosses. Each student won a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place award and no one went home without an award in each event.
It was an amazing day for these kids and one they will not soon forget. After the games were completed, the participants were treated to a lunch prepared by the Dexter Elks Lodge.
Dexter has hosted the Goodwill Games for many years. Students from all over Stoddard County are invited to participate. Schools such as Puxico, Richland, Bell City, Bernie and Bloomfield have been at the event for many years.
Congratulations to all of the participants. Each of you is truly a winner! A big thank you to the students, teachers, staff, parents, volunteers and others who made this a very special day for these students.
