Lincoln PTO Understanding Disabilities Committee

2007-2008 Committee Co-Chairs
Polly Welch
Julie Jampel

In late January, the fourth grade will begin the Understanding Disabilities program. The program is a town wide curriculum designed to sensitize children to the issues surrounding disabilities. It teaches our children about three disabling conditions: visual impairments; hearing impairments; and physical impairments. Each disability is presented during one week from January to March.

The goals of the program address issues of discrimination and prejudice and are designed to:

• demystify disabilities
• to remove the fears and uneasiness often experienced by able-bodied individuals
• to increase sensitivity to the basic similarity of feelings and needs we all have
• to focus on what people who are disabled can do rather than what they cannot do

It has proven highly effective in raising the awareness of children and adults to the many issues facing people with disabilities as they try to live in a world designed by and for able-bodied people.

Each unit is comprised of an introduction, related home work, video, simulated activities, and guest speakers. The program depends on parent volunteers. Although you are invited to attend any part, parent volunteers are critical for the simulation activities to be successful (** dates below). This is a well organized, wonderfully enriching program to share with students as they learn about real world issues. We, therefore, encourage you to participate in this very special program in our school, even if your child is not in the fourth grade.

Below is the schedule for the program. Please let us know ASAP if you are interested in either attending or helping. You may reach us by phone or email or leave the attached form in the Understanding Disabilities mailbox in the Main Office.

Many thanks,

Sarah and Jody
Co-chairs