Special Education Day, recognized on Dec. 2 each year, is a national holiday to recognize the first federal special education law, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. On this day people commemorate the idea that every person is important and unique and so is the requirement for education. The original public law for a free and appropriate education for all children was signed in 1975 by President Gerald Ford.
The staff and students at Indian Mills Elementary School turned an oft-forgotten milestone into a special celebration. The daylong event was jammed with a plethora of exceptional ways to emphasize the distinctiveness of every student and embrace unity of effort.
In support of the overall theme of “Uniqueness”, the kindergarten through fourth grade students’ decorated owls for the “Look Whooo’s Unique” bulletin board. Emphasizing the critical message of teamwork to accomplish any goal, the staff and students participated in a Spirit Day theme of basketball. However, instead of the 76ers, they were the 75ers, the year the reform became law, by wearing basketball apparel. To further support the ideas expressed by the law and its intent, teachers incorporated topics such as diversity, disabilities and inclusion of all into their daily and weekly lessons. Some activities included reading books that taught about disabilities and the acceptance of others that are different, special meet and greets and games. Stories about acceptance and friendship were woven into language arts and social studies.
It was a remarkable day for both the teachers and students. Everyone came away with a new appreciation for the law and the possibilities it unveiled.
