RESERVE – St. John the Baptist Parish School District recognized Valero St. Charles Refinery, their employees, the grant committee and George Vicknair for the generous $10,000 grant to the St. John Special Athletes Recreation Club. The St. John Special Athletes Recreation Club was nominated by Valero employee George Vicknair to receive the grant based on St. John’s dedication to children and their vital role in our community.

This grant was written by Zack Dubose, Adapted Physical Education teacher, and Cindy Owens, Special Education program coordinator. The St. John Special Athletes Club serves 200-330 students on a regular basis from eight schools with students participating in flag football and basketball after school and on weekends.

Students must demonstrate appropriate behavior in school in order to participate. Students are taught rules of games, strategies, leadership, teamwork and good sportsmanship. High school students who participate earn community service hours and mentor younger students. Valero employees also have volunteered to assist with the St. John Adapted PE Motor Extravaganza. This motor activity is for all Adapted PE students and their selected peers to participate in using their skills in real-life fun activities. The volunteers are instrumental in staging this event. St. John the Baptist Parish School District would like to sincerely thank the Valero St. Charles Refinery.