"Everybody Counts" in the Jackson R-2 School District

(Jackson, MO) Everybody Counts is the theme of the Jackson R-2 School District Disability Awareness Week (DAW) program, October 6-10. During the designated week, the Jackson R-2 School District and the Jackson community hosts events to promote the understanding of students with disabilities, realizing the importance of every person regardless of ability.

Each elementary building throughout the district participates by facilitating disability awareness fairs and focusing on abilities, rather than disabilities. Object lessons and physical challenges are also presented to help students understand and relate to students that are faced with a limitation.

"Helping students look beyond a disability and see a person for their interests, ideas and feelings is important. It truly emphasizes that everybody counts and every person is valued and important," said Dr. Beth Emmendorfer, Assistant Superintendent of the Jackson R-2 School District.

Disability Awareness week was created when the Missouri Legislature passed House Bill 555, which designated October to be "Disability History and Awareness Month." Authorizing disability awareness and instruction in public schools each year during the month of October.

For more information on "Everybody Counts" celebrations contact Merideth Pobst, mpobst@jackson.k12.mo.us , Director of Foundation / Communications for the Jackson R-2 School District.