Everyone matters: Raleigh County Schools love celebrating its students’ differences and their hearts, including those with special needs in the district-wide community.
It was all smiles as Ridgeview Elementary kicked off its 2nd Annual Disability Awareness and Acceptance Week.
We all need to have a voice and be heard, let our talent shine, and be recognized for what makes us special.
“Tolerance and understanding that people are different,” said Behavior Specialist and Pacesetters Dance Team Lead Taffy Robertson. “At the end of the day, they’re still people.”
When Laural Coleman’s Coal City Elementary program was created, she and some of her co-workers felt there was a need.
“For more inclusion, more acceptance among the students and staff,” the special education teacher said. “So I kind of brainstormed this idea with one of my coworkers. It means my kids are better accepted, my kids are included, and they can create friendships outside of my classroom.”
Dance has been part of Laura Noyes’ life for six years.
“I have a disability and love dance — it’s my favorite thing to do,” said the Pacesetters dancer.
They may be different, but they are not less.
“Doing our dance highlights that will be seen in the community, and they’re not just in schools, but are people at Walmart and in the grocery stores, and a lot of my performers hold jobs,” said Robertson.
The Pacesetters Dance Team enjoys the visibility and bringing their stories to life.
“Dancing for disabilities ’cause I’m autistic (special needs) and dancing is what I love to do,” dancer Autumn Bailey added.
