This letter is in reference to a letter to the editor published June 15, Massapequa absent from Games for the Physically Challenged, from Ellen A. Conroy of Massapequa Park.

While I appreciate that Mr. and Mrs. Conroy attended the Games for the Physically Challenged to show their support to the athletes, I regret that they were totally misinformed by Carmen Road School, that Massapequa School District students did not participate in the Games.

My 15-year-old son, an eighth grader at Berner Middle School is deaf and non-ambulatory. His physical education teacher, Kerry Jacobs along with Mr. Hoffman and Mr. Fiorentine encouraged my child to participate in the Games. With the blessing of Mr. Scarallo, principal of Berner and the administration of the school district, they allowed 30 students and various staff members to attend the Games to not only cheer on my child but every other athlete that was participating on June 3.

Each of these students hand-decorated t-shirts with words of encouragement as well as posters to show their support. One poster that comes to mind read Berner Athletes Cheer For All Athletes. The physical education teachers as well as the staff of the district went out of their way to ensure that my child was able to participate in these sporting events even though he was only a team unto himself, and that other Berner students had a chance to show off their caring spirit.

You could not have missed these students in the stands, yelling, clapping and enthusiastically cheering for all the athletes under the Berner Middle School banner that was proudly displayed.

As the parent of a participating Massapequan athlete, Iwas in awe of their spirit, respectfulness and excitement. The students total acceptance and appreciation of those who are differently abled is a true testament to not only themselves, but also to their parents, teachers, coaches, the Massapequa School District, the Character in Education Curriculum as well as the Massapequa community. Everyone should be so proud of how these students encouraged the participants. I know I am honored, proud and extremely grateful to the students of Massapequa.

I want to assure the Conroys that the Massapequa School District is leading the way in inclusion of our disabled children, not only in academics, but also in sports and community involvement. My son has never been so accepted and embraced in any other community as he is here, in Massapequa. Our school district has some of the most wonderful and caring staff that extend themselves above and beyond to ensure full inclusion for all. I am honored to be part of such a community.

Jean Branigan

Massapequa