Neurodiversity Celebration Week
March 18 – 22, 2024
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the biological fact that everyone has a uniquely wired brain and their own way of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world.
Just like our communities are diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation, we are also diverse in terms of our brains.
What does it mean to celebrate neurodiversity?
For students, it's pretty simple:
Recognize the naturally-occurring neurodiversity among us as a community. We all have different brains, and there is no such thing as a “normal” brain.
Celebrate the fact that we all have different brains and the many ways this diversity contributes to our world – from making scientific breakthroughs and creating beautiful art to building meaningful relationships. Isn't it awesome that we're all different?! Wouldn't it be boring if we were all the same?!
For adults, it's also important to put this in context of how we view ourselves and others:
Acknowledge that much of the world we live in (including our school system) has been designed for people with certain types of brains – brains that are not shaped by dyslexia, autism, ADHD, anxiety, Tourett’s, OCD, depression, or other so-called “neurodivergent” characteristics.
Understand that while it can be hard for people with some types of brains to navigate some aspects of the world, this is not because there’s anything "wrong" with them; it’s simply because much of our world was designed for people with other types of brains.
Upcoming Ways to Celebrate Neurodiversity in ACSD
Neurodiversity Celebration Night
March 20th, 5:30-7:00 pm
Marquis Theater Cafe
Join the Addison Central SEPAC for this opportunity to celebrate, learn, and connect with others on this important topic. Feel free to pop in for a short hello or to stay the whole time! Students of all ages are also welcome!
Shine a Light on Neurodiversity in ACSD
ACSD School Board Meeting
March 25th, 6:30pm
Join the Addison Central SEPAC and other community members in shining a light on the importance of understanding and celebrating neurodiversity among our students and staff. Feel free to share a public comment on the topic with the School Board or simply show your support through your presence. Students of all ages are welcome to join as well!
Activities in ACSD Schools
Stay tuned for information about upcoming activities to recognize and celebrate neurodiversity from leaders in your school communities.
Learn more!
Learn more about neurodiversity and this important time for celebrating it at: www.neurodiversityweek.com.
Some specific pages from this website are linked below for easy navigating to the good stuff!
