Garden City Public Schools

In honor of Disability Awareness Month, Stewart School in Garden City held a weeklong initiative in early December to promote inclusion, kindness and understanding, highlighting the unique strengths and experiences that make each student and staff member shine. Following the week’s activities, students also learned about the important role of service dogs in supporting people with disabilities, including how they are trained and matched with their future owners.

On Monday, Dec. 1, students participated in “Shine Bright for Inclusion” by wearing something sparkly or bright to show that everyone shines in their own way. Tuesday was “Walk in Someone Else’s Shoes” day, where the school wore mismatched or unique shoes or socks to celebrate differences. Wednesday was “Words Matter Wednesday,” which encouraged shirts with positive messages or kind words. On Thursday, students took part in “Sensory-Friendly Day” by wearing cozy, soft or comforting clothing. The week concluded on Friday with “We ALL Belong Day,” which featured Garden City apparel or maroon and gray to celebrate the district’s inclusive community.

As an additional part of Disability Awareness Month, representatives from Canine Companions visited Stewart on Dec. 8 with service dogs in training to share the process of becoming a service dog, how service dogs differ from therapy dogs and how they are matched with their future owners. Students had the opportunity to ask questions about the dogs’ training, size, diet and interactions with both humans and other animals, gaining a hands-on understanding of the important work these dogs do to support people with disabilities.

The week’s activities built empathy, understanding and community, leaving students with a deeper appreciation for the ways everyone can contribute to an inclusive environment.