Community service, volunteer work, and inclusion are at the top of the list for most school cheerleading teams.  Encouraged by their advisors to lead the student body in a positive direction, compassion and hard work are becoming the backbone of cheerleading teams everywhere.

T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School is following that model and more.  Autistic Cheerleader, Adejah Nesbitt, is an enthusiastic asset to the team – Leading the crowd with spirit and enthusiasm at each game.  Adejah also has a positive impact on her teammates who respect and watch after her at practices and games.  Coach Jonay Bailey appreciates the compassion and patience that Adejah brings to the team.  “She loves the girls, and they take good care of her.

The Josey Cheerleading team is a shining example of inclusion and community. Extending open arms to students who may have something special to contribute to a team and student body. Teaching hands-on compassion and life skills that may not have been acquired otherwise. The Josey Cheerleaders are leading the way, and others are following suit.

The federal government has also taken note of organizations that open doors for athletes with disabilities and are taking action. By launching efforts to include more disabled athletes in sports, more than athleticism is being taught and students are provided the opportunity to be a part of something much more. Inclusion.

Other organizations, like Varsity, have been teaching cheerleaders for decades, through summer camps, that cheerleading is more than cheering at games.  It’s a way to become a positive role model to peers and an inspiration to all.

 Read about the Josey Cheerleaders and their positive impact on inclusion here.

- Jessica Green