This April, Austin Road Elementary School brought inclusivity to life in meaningful, student-centered ways as part of Autism Acceptance Month. Building on its reimagined PRIDE program (with the letters now representing Progress, Respect, Inclusive, Dependable, Engaged), the school community has been focusing on what inclusivity looks and sounds like, with a special emphasis on supporting and celebrating students who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices.
Throughout the month, students and staff have engaged in a series of activities designed to foster understanding and appreciation. A highlight of the initiative is “Talker Tuesdays,” where students who use communication devices take part in morning announcements, sharing messages such as the daily weather, lunch choices and recess updates. These experiences provide authentic opportunities for peers and staff to learn directly from students and better understand the many ways people communicate.
In addition to student-led activities, staff members are participating in professional learning to deepen their knowledge of AAC devices and how to support their use in the classroom. Town Hall meetings continue to reinforce the school’s focus on inclusivity, offering demonstrations and discussions that help students build empathy and awareness. An interactive “AAC Coffee Hour” gave staff a hands-on opportunity to experience communicating through these devices.
“This work is about helping every student feel seen, heard and valued,” Principal Bryan Gilligan said. “By highlighting the voices of students who use AAC devices, we are creating opportunities for our entire school community to better understand different forms of communication and to grow in empathy and respect.”
Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele praised the initiative and its impact on the broader school community.
“Austin Road’s work on inclusivity reflects the very best of what we strive for as a district,” Miele said. “Bryan and his team are helping build a culture where differences are respected and celebrated. These are lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.”
The initiative was developed through the school’s Site-Based Team, with contributions from staff members Amanda Giacquinta, Rebecca Kassirer and Kelly Mena. Together, their efforts are helping to create a more inclusive environment where all students can connect, communicate and thrive.
