GMS: Creating a Culture of Inclusion
Grace McWayne turned World Autism Awareness Day on April 3 into a week of awareness for disabilities, which culminated in an all-school assembly and Friendship Walk on Fri., April 6.
The assembly featured a guest speaker, Julia, who shared her story about living with Down syndrome and how she’s no different than other people. She has a job, she travels, swims, dances, joined a Bunco group, and is CPR certified. She’s also a public speaker for the National Association of Down Syndrome and is working on getting her driving permit, which she said makes her mom and dad nervous. 🙂
“If you have the courage to begin, you have the courage to succeed,” Julia told students during her presentation.
After the Friendship Walk on Friday, GMS parent Josh Chambers shared the following message on Twitter, which speaks volumes about Grace McWayne’s effort to shine the light on what makes students unique and similar, acceptance of our differences, and how we all can connect: “I am so proud that my daughter was part of this today. Decency, respect, and empathy will carry the day. Darkness is driven out by the light. Thank You @BPS101 @BPS_Supt @GraceMcWayne.”
Take a peek at some of the pics from Grace McWayne’s assembly and Friendship Walk …
GMS Principal Jeff Modaff explaining to students the significance of a puzzle piece for the school’s autism and disabilities awareness week. “We are all unique puzzle pieces. We each have our own colors, characteristics, shapes, sizes, and differences … yet we fit together.”
A great message!
Julia, who is part of the National Down Syndrome Association’s Self-Advocate Public Speakers Program, sharing her experience living with Down syndrome and how she hasn’t let it stop her from living a full and vibrant life.
GMS Instructional Coach Kelly Woodard, Speech Pathologist Sabina Walker, and Second Grade Teacher Chad Clarey serving up the ingredients of a healthy friendship to prepare students for the Friendship Walk.
Right before the Friendship Walk, students were asked to pair up with a fellow student that they didn’t know that well and to get to know that student during the walk. To spark conversation, students were given questions like, What is your favorite TV show?, What kind of music do you like?, What would be your perfect weekend?, etc.
Ready to walk with a new friend!
Even though the weather was chilly, that didn’t stop Team GMS from walking.
The Friendship Walk started on the blacktop and ended in one giant puzzle piece …
Shout out to Mr. Clarey for creating the puzzle piece template that brought the entire school together in the playing field!
