Shining Bright: How SPARKLE and Best Buddies Are Lighting Up Torrey Pines High School
*(Photo courtesy of the San Diego Union Tribune): Torrey Pines High School Students Riley Pathman and Juliette Dicken participating in the TPHS Sparkle Program in the gym. SPARKLE’s Purpose and Mission: The Best Buddies program, SPARKLE, fosters meaningful friendships between students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through organized athletics and public performances. Through these inclusive activities, peer mentoring, and community events, SPARKLE breaks down social barriers and builds a school culture rooted in empathy and acceptance. It empowers students to grow in confidence, develop leadership skills, and embrace student body diversity. By promoting awareness and kindness, SPARKLE not only enriches the high school experience but also lays the foundation for lifelong inclusion and advocacy for individuals with IDD. The program plays a transformative role in enriching the high school experience for all students-both those with intellect...
