Oshkosh track meet and carnival brings students of all abilities together

OSHKOSH, Wis. (WLUK) -- It was an event designed for everyone to enjoy in Oshkosh.

The school district held its annual C.A.R.E. Days (Celebrating Abilities, Rallying Everyone) Wednesday.

The event was first held in 2014 and features a track meet and carnival to bring together and celebrate students of all abilities from Oshkosh Area School District schools.

Students in the district’s K-12 adapted physical education programs paired up with high school students from Oshkosh North and Oshkosh West to compete in track and field events, play carnival games and activities, and most importantly, build new relationships. Additionally, each competing student was able to invite a “choice cheerleader” from their home school to join them at C.A.R.E. Days and cheer for them during events.

Gillian Pakula, dean of students at Oshkosh West, says it brings students together.

“It’s really neat to have student interaction, peer to peer, adults are always there in the background to support, it really is about kids enjoying the beautiful weather, having fun and doing some great activities," Pakula said.

More than 500 students are involved in the event each year.