"Homecoming King and Queen" are titles usually reserved for football quarterbacks and head cheerleaders, but one Virginia high school changed all that with a single, powerful gesture of inclusion this October.
The students of Randolph-Henry High School elected Scott Catron and Shelby Majeski, both Special Olympics athletes in Charlotte County, as their 2009 Homecoming King and Queen. Scott and Shelby have long been favorites amongst their classmates, but this "crowning" achievement, a first for the school, speaks volumes about the extraordinary character of the Randolph-Henry student body.
With their parents standing proudly behind them, Scott and Shelby joined the six other members of the Homecoming Court on the football field during halftime Oct. 23. As soon as the duo heard their names over the loudspeaker, there were waves, smiles and high-fives all around. Scott and Shelby then received their sash and crown, all the while posing for photos for the local newspaper and TV.
As Scott and Shelby celebrated on the field, Joanne Catron, Scott's mother and also the Charlotte County coordinator for Special Olympics in Area 15, couldn't hide her tears of joy. "It's fantastic that Scott and Shelby are both accepted by their school and peers as equals and are celebrated for their unique abilities to bring smiles and joy to everyone who meets them," she said. Shelby's mom, Robin Jones, expressed the same sentiments, noting "this day will not be forgotten."
For the past 10 years, Scott has participated in numerous Special Olympic activities including swimming, soccer, basketball and track and field. Shelby, who has been involved in the program for the last 4 years, is active in soccer, basketball and track and field. Together they have many medals and ribbons from local, area and state events.

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