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Differences Day Celebration at Garrison and Haldane Schools
The Garrison and Haldane Schools present Differences Day, a disability awareness program, designed to promote awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by special needs children on Thursday, April 12. The program helps able-bodied students develop positive attitudes and empathy towards those with disabilities. Differences Day is brought to both schools through Common Threads, a joint project of the Garrison and Haldane PTA and winner of the 2006 Phoebe Apperson Hearst Award of Excellence from the National PTA.
Third grade students experience simulations and hands-on activities of what it is like to have a disability. Students rotate through stations that address visual impairments, hearing impairments, communication impairments, motor skill deficits and learning disabilities. Every student has the opportunity to use adaptive equipment or other materials to simulate a disability at each station. Sixth grade students have the opportunity to meet Bob Smith, who presents his poetry program. Mr. Smith, a severely disabled poet who was-born with cerebral palsy, shares his life experiences with students. Despite his inability to speak, walk or care for himself, he effectively communicates with and relates to students.
In its eighth year, Differences Day is offered to the local schools through the effort and support of school parents and community volunteers. A Common Threads program, Differences Day is a joint project of the Garrison and Haldane PTAs that is supported by the Haldane School Foundation and the Garrison Children's Education Fund. Common Threads is a multi-cultural and tolerance initiative in both local schools.
For more information, contact: Pam Kasa, 265-2890
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