Amazing Things Happen When We Follow Our Students' Passions!

Several months ago, a student, who types to communicate, shared his interest in “superheroes”.  After expressing this interest, he was interested to hear that there are other students and staff members who have a passion for superheroes as well.
 
This communication has turned into the development of a weekly “SUPERHEROES GROUP” spearheaded by Karen Campbell.
 
Every Thursday morning, in a high school classroom friends come together for this group.  Students with varying communication abilities join together with self-proclaimed “superhero nerds”, Jon and Jordan.  The group has discussed recent movie releases, favorite characters, comic books and have even engaged in an awesome conversation on how autism is portrayed in this genre.  Everyone participates and are happy to share their thoughts and opinions with the group and even, on occasion, debate when their views are different.
 
This group started out with a couple participants and as time has gone on, more students have opted to stay and participate.  This is a wonderful way for our kids to connect, relate, and engage with each other over a shared passion for something where everyone feels respected, included, and proud.  This has become an hour both students and staff look forward to every week and shows how much our students are able to participate when they are given a chance to engage in something they are passionate about.  Friendship, conversation and most of all SUPERHEROES!! 

​- Lisa Romaine, Supported Communication Teacher, Celebrate the Children