Perhaps one of the most noteworthy aspects of East Noble High School is the willingness with which our students accept students of all abilities. A common theme over the years has been getting our life skills students, or students with special needs or disabilities, involved in extracurricular activities that can expand their skills. Last year the focus was on John Herron, an excellent wrestler that did not let his Down’s syndrome stop him from being a part of the team. This year we shift our focus to Madison Cunningham, a cheerleader that brought such spirit to the cheer squad despite physical disabilities.

When Madison was born, her mother was told that it would be unlikely that Madison would ever walk or even sit up on her own due to cerebral palsy, and would not be able to communicate very clearly with others due to very little hearing ability. As can be imagined, Madison’s mother had a very tough time accepting the news. However, Madison beat all odds against her. She can now walk, and has learned to communicate through sign language and use of apps on her iPad. As Madison has continued to improve, those around her have continually looked for opportunities to help her improve her physically abilities.

Madison first expressed interest in cheerleading at a homecoming pep rally, where she was in awe of the cheerleaders and what they were doing. Mr. Ryan Pepple, Madison’s physical education teacher, then talked to cheer coach Schamberle Williams and asked what she thought about having Madison join the squad for the next season, and Coach Williams was all for it. Likewise, Madison’s mother was excited for the opportunity that this presented Madison with, and couldn’t wait to see how this improved Madison’s physical and social skills.

As Madison cheered throughout basketball season, it was evident that her participation in East Noble cheer was impacting more than just herself. The cheer squad really grew as the surrounded Madison and tried to provide her with the best experience possible. The squad spent a lot of time working with and Madison and teaching her all of the same things they were doing, knowing that she would do anything to the best of her ability. Throughout the season, Madison’s skills improved in many different ways. Not only did she learn a great deal about communicating and developing friendships that will last a lifetime, but her physical abilities also improved greatly. By the end of the season Madison was running, jumping, stunting, and dancing alongside the other cheerleaders and doing everything that they could do.

Not only did Madison benefit and grow through her experience as an East Noble cheerleader, her squad members also learned a great deal from her. The spirit Madison brought to every practice and every game was so inspiring, and something that any cheerleader could only hope to match. A huge thank you to everyone who supported Madison throughout this cheer season, and look out for her huge spirit on the track and court next year!