There was a special presentation during the school board meeting Tuesday evening for a very deserving BJSHS senior.
Riata Rouch was presented with the Carl and Betty Erskine Spirit of Inclusion Award for her participation in the BJSHS Unified Sports program.
Tyler McDonald and Linda Wallace, two of the Bruins United coaches, commended Riata for her participation and service to her fellow students. This school year, she participated in Unified Bowling and Track. For her efforts, Riata was awarded a 3/4 zip shirt with the Erskine honor printed on it. McDonald explained that the shirt would be much like the golf "Masters" jacket. Riata will return to BCS next year to present the award to the next deserving senior.
According to Coach McDonald, the basis of this award is to shine a light on a specific senior who has shown dedication to not only their chosen unified sport, but also their team. He went on to reference Carl Erskine and his wife, Betty, who blazed trails for children with special needs.
We appreciate Riata and the difference she has made during her time in Blackford County Schools, whether it be working on health care objectives (for humans and animals) to her time as a member of Unified Sports, we couldn't be more #BruinProud!