No. 14 Vol. 7
New View Media Group • 1-800-691-7549
June 27, 2018
Special Education Week Fosters Acceptance Among Students Of Different Abilities
T
By Anya Bochman hroughout the month of May, Wayne Township public schools recognized the achievements
of their students with disabilities, as well as the commitment of parents, teachers and other professionals, with a designated
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Special Education Week. Although the entire month was dedicated to the theme, falling under the umbrella of Abilities Awareness Month, Special Education Week took place specifically from May 13 to May 19. In support of the district’s aim towards an inclusive philosophy, all schools hosted various events aimed at highlighting the commonalities among students of all abilities, emphasizing the strengths and talents of all children. “Students with and without disabilities learned what it feels like to come to school with a disability such as autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or dyslexia,” said Debra Strauss, director of Student Support Services. “They gained experience in how children with these disabilities compensate for their difficulties and how they use their talents and strengths to be successful
Ability Awareness at Pines Lake Elementary School. Photos courtesy/Jennifer Varano
in and outside of school. All participants learned that students with and without disabilities are alike in far more ways than they are different.” Last year’s Abilities Awareness Month saw the Wayne Special Parents Association (WSPA) selling bracelets in support of such themes as respect, trust, friendship and acceptance. Students participating in a Structured Learning Experience (SLE)
work-based program assisted with the sale process at each school in the district. This May, the Ability Awareness Team expanded upon last year’s success. A committee consisting of the Special Education Parent Advisory Group (SEPAG) representatives, art and physical education teachers and administration was formed in order to plan strategically. The art department collaborated with
Student Support Services and facilitated an art tee shirt contest based on the phrase “It Starts With Hello,” a reference to the “Start with Hello” Sandy Hook Promise initiative. Per contest rules, students created vertical drawings on eight by 11-inch paper using only black and white designs. The winning drawing was created into a tee shirt. The total funds generated by cont. on page 6