The winter season is upon us, which means plunging season is here too; the Polar Plunge returns to Mayo on March 11th, and you can register today! The Polar Plunge raises money to help support the Minnesota Special Olympics and the Unified program here at Mayo. Hundreds of students each year sign up to join their peers in a freezing cold jump into icy waters. Costumes and groups are welcomed and encouraged. Register soon to ensure your spot in the water!
Why should you take the Plunge? Doing this challenge supports Unified clubs by bringing awareness to Mayo’s students with special needs. Colin Thomas, the Unified club advisor who is especially involved in the Plunge, gives his view on why it is important to our school: “This is an opportunity for the students with special needs to have the light shine on them for a day. Think about the basketball team. They have a game, and everyone shows up and cheers; in drama, everyone shows up for the play, but our students with special needs don’t get that moment to shine.” Thomas urges everyone who is able and willing to take the Plunge. “On Plunge day, this is a time that all… the excitement really gets to focus on our students with special needs. It helps them feel like they are a part of the school’s community. It’s an opportunity to bring the attention and love to these students that they don’t normally get,” Mr. Thomas said. Last year, both teachers and students alike joined in on the fun!
Mr. Parker and Mr. Trimble take the Plunge.
The Polar Plunge also supports Mayo’s Unified program financially. Unified Club meets every Thursday morning in Mr. Colin’s room 2-240. There are donuts, games, a Nintendo Switch, foosball table, and many other fun things for members of Unified Club to enjoy. Mr. Thomas mentioned “the whole purpose of Unified is building our relations between students with and without special needs.” The money raised during the Plunge helps run this exceptional club as well as put on other events throughout the year including pizza parties and movie nights. The Unified program also includes the Unified art class, and Unified P.E. where students are able to take elective classes to further facilitate those strong bonds with their peers.
The turnout for 2024 was great, but this year can be even better!
Show your support to our peers with special needs by taking the Plunge! You can register to take part at Mayo High School here: https://www.plungemn.org/events/rochester-mayo-high-school-cool-school/. You also get one hour of volunteering for members of Mayo Honor Society. Once you have raised a minimum of $50 you will be eligible to jump; if you feel it will be difficult to raise $50, you can email (or go see) Colin Thomas at [email protected], and he will help find a donor who can help fund your Plunge!
Photos courtesy of Sophie Sanchez
