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Orinda Intermediate School

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https://ois.orindaschools.org/Programs/Diverse-Abilities/
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Orinda Intermediate School

Home of The Bulldogs

Diverse Abilities

Diverse Abilities Awareness Week (DAAW) is an annual, district-wide educational campaign coinciding with Disability Awareness month in October. We launch a weeklong celebration highlighting disability, neurodiversity, and the unique abilities and perspectives that make our community stronger. We engage in a series of learning opportunities, this week and throughout the school year, aimed at raising awareness and creating a more inclusive and supportive community where everyone's different abilities and challenges are recognized and appreciated.
 

Why It Matters: Benefits for Our Community

  • Foster Empathy: Students will learn about different abilities, challenges, and the incredible resilience and strength of individuals who navigate them daily. Empathy is a 21st century skill and awareness is the foundation. Through empathy, we can create a more compassionate community.
  • Empower Individuals: We celebrate the talents, skills, and achievements of people with disability and neurodiversity. We embrace these unique perspectives and empower individuals to reach their full potential and contribute to our community's growth.
  • Build Bridges and Connections: We encourage meaningful interactions between individuals of all abilities. We appreciate the chance to bridge gaps, break down barriers, and create authentic and lasting friendships that enrich our lives.

DAAW Activities

During Diverse Abilities Awareness Week, OIS students participate in activities designed to increase their awareness, understanding, and compassion. Our 8th grade WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) and Leadership students visit classrooms to give an overview of the week and explain an aspect of the program, such as highlighting heroes with differences or detailing the eligibility categories of IDEA (Individuals with Disability Education Act). In science and PE classes, students engage in lessons that explore other aspects that are selected by the DAAW committee on an annual basis. Our special education teachers and support staff contribute to the learning, and our student broadcast, KOIS, produces content designed to educate our community about topics that are germane.