Damascus Demo Day Highlights Adapted PE and Student Achievement

Damascus High School recently celebrated its annual Demo(nstration) Day, an adapted physical education event designed to showcase the skills students have built throughout the year.

Organized by adapted physical education teacher Amanda Quay, “Demo Day” brought together students in the Learning for Independence (LFI) and School Community-Based (SCB) programs, student leaders, paraeducators and families for a morning focused on fitness, teamwork and fun. 

Students rotated through 18 activity stations featuring skills practiced throughout the year, including archery, baseball striking, soccer dribbling, basketball shooting and shot put. Each student in the LFI and SCB programs was paired with a “buddy” for the day, helping encourage teamwork, connection and support throughout the event.

“Demo Day is a celebration of physical education, health and fitness,” Quay said. “The event allows students to demonstrate the movement and health-related fitness skills they have learned and practiced throughout the school year.”

The program began in 2019 after Quay collaborated with a former curriculum specialist to create a leadership curriculum that supports adapted physical education. Although the event paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has continued to grow into a highly anticipated tradition for students and families.

The 90-minute event also included a staff obstacle course race, family participation and a closing medal ceremony recognizing students’ hard work and accomplishments.

“The students look forward to it every year,” Quay said. “It’s an opportunity for them to shine.”

Parents and families of students in the LFI, SCB and leadership programs were invited to attend and celebrate alongside students, paraeducators and staff.