On a sunny afternoon in early May, more than 200 students and staff from Minnetonka Middle School West took a leap to support the school’s Best Buddies and Unified programs—right into a tank of cold water! The “Cool School Mobile Plunge” is a fundraiser through Special Olympics Minnesota that brings the fun of a “polar plunge” event directly to the school campus.

“The idea for this event emerged when MMW became a Special Olympics Unified Champion School in the fall,” shared Reilly Woodruff, special education teacher and Best Buddies advisor. “Our school chose to add this distinction to our building because of our commitment to promoting inclusion and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). MMW's inclusion team wanted to create impactful opportunities for our students to connect, support a worthy cause, and strengthen our school community.” 

On the day of the event, a specialized “Plungester” was set up at MMW, and students who participated in the fundraiser took turns doing their plunges with their advisory classes. Teachers, administrators and even Superintendent David Law also made the jump! “It means a lot to have so many students across the school interested and involved. We’ve done fundraisers before for Best Buddies, but none that were this big and schoolwide. It’s awesome,” shared Gus Kraker ‘29, a student in the Best Buddies club. 

"It was an incredible day.  What was super clear was that inclusion is now embedded in our culture—we are all Unified—this is not just for a small group of students. MMW students understand that we can connect with our peers regardless of differences," shared Freya Schirmacher, MMW Principal. "This event was a celebration of inclusion at its best. I am so grateful for the incredible teachers, staff, and students that made this happen!"

In total, the event raised $25,000 to support Special Olympics Minnesota, which MMW partners with through its Best Buddies and Unified programs. “The funds raised will help to create more inclusive sports opportunities and resources for athletes with IDD across the state in various school buildings,” said Woodruff. 

The event’s energy and camaraderie were highlights for many of the staff and student organizers. “The best part was everyone coming together, shivering but laughing, for a wild, shared experience and cause,” said Kristen Spilane, special education teacher at MMW. “Allowing our students with intellectual disabilities to be showcased alongside their peers was a great moment for our MMW and Minnetonka community.”  

“I loved witnessing the incredible sense of unity and excitement among our students and staff. Seeing them cheer each other on as they took the plunge, many for the first time, was a powerful reminder of the strength and compassion within our community,” said Woodruff. “One standout memory was the contagious energy as our students and staff gathered before the plunge, building each other up with chants and encouragement—it was a true celebration of inclusion and teamwork.”