Embracing differences, promoting understanding, and encouraging everyone to feel valued and included is the focus of Inclusion Week in the Cuyahoga Heights Schools (CHS) March 23-27. “By the end of the week, our goal is for everyone to walk away with a deeper sense of belonging, a greater willingness to support one another, as well as practical ways to make inclusion part of everyday classroom life,” said Jena Amato, teacher for students with disabilities.
“When students feel accepted and valued, they are more engaged, confident, and successful in school. In addition, inclusion supports academic growth, social development, and long-term independence for all students, not just those with disabilities,” Amato stated. “After graduation, we want our students to work, live, and interact with people of all abilities. Inclusive classrooms model that reality.”
Throughout the week, Amato and Joellen Podoll, secretary to the athletics and activities director, are coordinating a variety of grade-appropriate activities to address this goal. Students and staff will be invited to participate in Spirit Days by visualizing inclusivity through different modes of dress. Each day has its own theme. For example:
Monday: “Blue Day” – Wear blue to recognize Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Tuesday: “Be a Hero for Inclusion” – Dress like a superhero
Wednesday: “Be Unique” – Wear mismatched clothing
Thursday: “Kaleidoscope Day” – Wear tie-dye
Friday: “Be Part of the Team” – Wear Cuyahoga Heights gear
During the morning announcements, middle and high School students will hear facts that highlight the accomplishments and contributions of individuals with disabilities and how they positively impact our communities. At the high school, both students and staff can contribute their thoughts on inclusion by writing them on open-ended statement posters. Sentence starters such as “Inclusion means…” will encourage everyone to share their perspectives, beliefs, and ideas about what inclusion looks like in the school community.
“We want students and staff to recognize that inclusion isn’t just a practice – it’s a mindset,” emphasized Amato. “Inclusion benefits all students, not just those with disabilities. “Inclusive school communities help students develop empathy and understanding, social and leadership skills, stronger peer relationships, respect for differences, and a sense of belonging.”
As a followup to Inclusion Week, Podoll is coordinating an Inclusion Club for any student to join. The club will bring students together who might not normally interact, create opportunities for friendships across different abilities and backgrounds, and make inclusion visible, fun, and meaningful. The first meeting will be held April 9 during high school and middle school lunch.
Picture #1: Intervention Specialist Rebecca DelRosa (center) with students Marisa Drobnick and Skye Sutyak.
Picture #2: Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent Tracy Deal demonstrates her skills on Super Hero Day.
Picture #3: Spiderman (teacher Michael Tartara) with Marisa Drobnick and Skye Sutyak.
Picture #4: Mariama Hopkins with friends Marisa Drobnick and Skye Sutyak.
Picture#5: Getting acquainted are left to right: Aiden Flynn, Skye Sutyak, Marisa Drobnick, Kurtis Van Divner and Gavin Chamberlin.
Picture #6: Long-term substitute teacher Pete Behnke gets acquainted with students during Mismatch Day.
Picture #7: Secretary to the Athletics/Activities Director Joellen Podoll (center) celebrates Mismatch Day with students.
