I Can the Way I Am

Throughout the month of October, pre-school thru 8th grades students and teachers are engaging  in a month long disability awareness program incorporating hands-on simulations and guest speakers. The I Can The Way I Am program introduces students to specific disabilities with a focus on what people CAN do! Students are gaining awareness of their own attitudes and ideas related to those who may seem different than themselves. The I Can The Way I Am program strives to promote understanding, tolerance, and acceptance while reducing students fears of the unknown. Students will gain insights on establishing connections and relationships with people with disabilities. I Can The Way I Am is designed to introduce specific disabilities to students in an age and developmentally appropriate fashion and is structured into four phases: preparation, action, reflection, and celebration.

This is the second year for the I Can The Way I Am program at St. Mary’s School. The program was developed by parents and volunteers within the school and parish community and is largely based on a disability awareness program known as Everybody Counts with roots in Cincin