Special Olympics Montana and Kalispell Public Schools have entered into a collaborative memorandum of understanding.

The agreement, which will be reviewed annually, outlines the district’s mission regarding Special Olympics activities, eligibility and participation requirements for student athletes and the types of games, practices and area activities available throughout the year. The memorandum covers all ages from elementary through high school.

Prior to the memorandum, there wasn’t a formal document regarding Special Olympics, according to district administrators. The district had used eligibility guidelines, for example, directly from Special Olympics Montana, or continued historical practices, according to Kalispell Public Schools Special Education Director Chris Bilant. Bilant said the memorandum formalizes the district’s partnership with Special Olympics and defines responsibilities.

“The memorandum was drafted in the spirit of creating opportunities for kids,” Bilant said.

Special Olympics Montana President Bob Norbie said the organization has similar memorandums with other schools, but it was a first for Kalispell Public Schools.

“This would be the first time we’ve had a formal acknowledgment about what we aspire to do,” Norbie said.

Kalispell Public Schools Special Olympics Supervisor Mark Dennehy said the memorandum doesn’t contain any significant changes from what historically has been done in the district.

“We provide pretty much the same services we do now, it’s just codified. We just reaffirmed our support of the program — how valuable it is in our schools and community,” Dennehy said.

The memorandum stems from a committee that was assembled after concerns were raised by parents and community members at a board meeting last January when they discovered funding for transportation to the Winter Games for middle school students wasn’t in the budget. The district historically had provided travel funding to games and stipends for Special Olympics coaches and coordinators.

Former Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Darlene Schottle reinstated the funding and athletes were able to compete. Parents asked for a more permanent solution so that it would not happen again, and the committee was formed.

Parent Mary Tepas, who was part of the committee, said it was a step in the right direction.

“We were able to come to an agreement that made everyone happy. The activities are listed out and that is everything the district is budgeting for,” Tepas said. “It’s definitely a first good step, I think [Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Mark Flatau] has been fantastic coming into this process. He has been gracious and showed a concern and a willingness to listen and he never shut us down.”

This year’s budget for transportation and stipends is approximately $13,000, which comes from special education and general funds. This amount is on par with other district athletic and activities programs.

Moving forward, Tepas hopes there will be a new culture toward children with disabilities.

“While we started with this memorandum of understanding, we’re now looking at creating booster clubs to support the athletic offerings and clubs,” Tepas said.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or by email at [email protected].