Throughout April Montclair Public Schools are engaging in learning activities that: celebrate the strengths and contributions of neurodiverse individuals, educate students and staff about neurodiversity and inclusive practices, and promote environments where all learners feel seen, heard and valued. As the month kicks off, here is a glimpse of some activities that are taking place.
Bullock students are learning about neurodiversity, what makes each person, and the important difference between acceptance and awareness. The students also explored the meaning of the infinity symbol as a representation of the autism community.To celebrate their learning, each grade created infinity symbols in their assigned colors, which they used to build a beautiful "Acceptance Grows with Us" tree, said Bullock School Counselor Lauren Gutierrez, who facilitated the program with her intern Ciara Stewart.“This tree represents our commitment to inclusion, understanding, and celebrating differences,” said Gutierrez.
Hillside parent and member of SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council) Kaitlyn Cade and her family organized the infinity symbol project which signifies the infinite range of experiences and abilities within the autism spectrum, highlighting the unique strengths and perspectives of individuals with autism. Students and staff colored the infinity symbols to help bring acceptance to the Hillside community and make the school a little more beautiful.
