Dec. 2 is a National Day of observance for Special Education. It was deemed, “National Special Education Day” because it marks the anniversary of our nation’s first federal special education law, which was signed by President Gerald Ford on Dec. 2 1975.
This law is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. IDEA has undergone several revisions over the course of 40 years. In schools all students are afforded a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.
Dec. 2 was about acceptance and the events planned in both buildings were ones that promoted friendship and embracing everyone’s unique qualities.
This event promoted a positive climate in both buildings and a shared vision for all learners!
Our Elementary School song theme this year was by Bruno Mars “Count on Me”.
A library has been created to celebrate special education and diversity at Indian Mills Elementary School.
At the middle school events to celebrate diversity are woven into the academic day for students at Indian Mills Memorial School and include:
– Morning announcements.
– Adaptive physical education lessons for students to experience taking PE with a disability.
– Learning about diverse scientists over time (i.e. Temple Grandin)
– Celebrating the differences of each other through language arts.
– Making the school theme: “we are all unique fish in the same school”.