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collection of 9 photos of students and staff participating in different activities during the turkey triathlon
MSA's Upper and Lower Schools celebrate their community.

MSA’s Upper and Lower School students came together to run, bike, and “swim” in three adapted relay activities for the school’s annual Turkey Triathlon last week.  

"For two and a half years we did it all virtually, so it’s really nice to see the smiles on the kids' faces as they compete with each other and cheer their friends on,” said Kevin McManaway, Director of the Lower School. “Our teachers and therapy team have been meeting weeks before to make sure the kids had appropriate bikes and scooter boards.” 

It was the first time that both schools and staff participated in an in-person event since COVID began. Students competed in mixed-aged teams, fostering social connections outside their usual peer groups. All 135 students were greeted by cheers and claps as they entered the gymnasium. Soon after, Phyt Cares, a gym that regularly partners with YAI, energized the group and led a fun warm-up before the races began.  

“Everyone had an opportunity to do a skill they are capable of doing and it’s building school spirit and getting us to acknowledge our kids and their wonderful abilities,” said Rae Eisdorfer, MSA's Executive Director. 

Throughout most of November, students participated in Thanksgiving-themed lessons and activities every day, culminating with the exciting main day on November 22. Classrooms competed against each other to raise the most money and win the coveted turkey trophy. 

Money raised during the month-long fundraiser will help MSA purchase art supplies and adaptive musical equipment for the school’s Art & Music Therapy departments. As of today, the school has raised $29,297 of its $30,000 goal.  

“This will be the first of many collaborative events like this. We think it's really important for staff in the Lower School to see the future of the students when they move up and for staff in the Upper School to see how far their kids have come” said Stephanie Ferreira, Director of the Upper School.  

Check out some highlights of the fun day!