From KMS to Milano-Cortina: Celebrating Our 2026 Olympians and Paralympians

Killington Mountain School is bursting with pride as our community shines on the world stage at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympic Winter Games. Our student-athletes are making history and representing KMS as well as their home nations. 

At just 16 years old, Jess Perlmutter ’28 has captured international attention as one of the most exciting young talents in snowboarding. Named to the U.S. Olympic Team in both Slopestyle and Big Air for Milano-Cortina, Jess is part of a new wave of American snowboarders bringing energy and progression to the sport. 

Jess also made waves at X Games Aspen 2026 in January, where she won her first X Games gold medal in Women’s Snowboard Knuckle Huck during her X Games debut. In a field stacked with talent, she stood atop the podium with creative and dynamic riding, marking an incredible milestone just weeks before the Olympic Games. 

Her success at Aspen — the biggest action-sports event outside the Olympics — underscores her creativity, fearlessness, and readiness to compete with the world’s best in Italy. 

In early 2025, Alice Padilha ‘25 secured a slalom Olympic quota place for Brazil at the 2026 Winter Games ensuring Brazil’s return to women’s alpine skiing at the Olympics for the first time since 2014. 

At 18 years old, Alice is among the youngest alpine competitors on the Olympic stage and a leading figure in Brazil’s burgeoning winter sports presence. Her journey from Rio de Janeiro to global competition reflects determination, passion, and the global reach of skiing itself. 

Manuela Passaretta ’23 was named to the Italian Olympic Team in freestyle moguls skiing — a huge achievement that recognizes years of elite competition and commitment. Unfortunately, a training injury will prevent Manuela from competing at Milano-Cortina, despite her selection. While she won’t be competing this year, her qualification alone is a testament to her talent and resilience.

We continue to enthusiastically root for Spencer Wood ’15, as he continues his pursuit of another Paralympic alpine skiing team selection. Spencer’s commitment, grit, and influence as a Paralympic athlete exemplify the KMS ethos. While selections are still unfolding, our community stands with him as he strives to return to the Paralympics for the third time!

We are so proud of Jess, Alice, Manuela, and Spencer — and we can’t wait to see what they do next!