MONROE Pine Tree Elementary School recently completed a week long Celebration of Capabilities program where students and staff attended assemblies providing them with the ability to hear and learn about how people with disabilities live highly successful lives. Students learned about therapeutic horseback riding, Aspergers Syndrome, adaptive use musical instruments as well as other ways people with disabilities live their lives.
Shawna White, a girl born with Cerebral Palsy who is a local radio celebrity, spoke to students about her challenges.
Additionally, every student had an opportunity to visit hands-on workshops where they learned what it would be like to have a disability. They experienced reading Braille, using a reaching aid to grab items high on shelves, buttoning a shirt or tying shoes while wearing gloves.
Officials said students left the assemblies and hands-on workshop having a genuine appreciation for their health and for others who live with disabilities.
This wonderful tradition was started three years ago and has become part of the culture of Pine Tree, added Pine Tree Assistant Principal Karen Brock.
- Nancy Kriz