All About Autism

Each April, communities across the country recognize Autism Awareness Month—a time to learn more about autism spectrum disorder (ASD), reflect on how far understanding has come, and recommit ourselves to creating more inclusive, supportive environments for individuals of all abilities. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact, learn, and experience the world around them. Because autism exists on a spectrum, no two individuals with ASD are the same. Some may need significant support in daily life, while others live very independently. What unites them is not their limitation, but difference—and those differences often come with unique strengths, perspectives, and talents. 

Over the years, national conversation around autism has evolved. While awareness remains important, the focus has increasingly shifted toward acceptance, inclusion, and understanding. Autism Awareness Month is not only about recognizing a diagnosis—it is about recognizing people. It is about seeing individuals for who they are, appreciating how they contribute to our schools, workplaces, and communities, and ensuring they are given opportunities to thrive. 

In our schools, this means creating learning environments that honor diverse ways of thinking and learning. For some students, this may include assistive technology, sensory‑friendly spaces, flexible instruction, or additional supports that promote engagement and independence. When we design classrooms with neurodiversity in mind, we benefit all learners—not just those with an autism diagnosis. 

In the workplace, being open‑minded and inclusive may look like offering clear communication, predictable routines, or alternative ways to demonstrate skills and productivity. Many individuals with ASD bring exceptional focus, creativity, honesty, problem‑solving ability, and attention to detail to their work. When employers value these strengths and provide supportive environments, workplaces become more innovative, effective, and inclusive. 

In our communities, embracing neurodiversity starts with empathy. It means reserving judgment, being patient, and understanding that behaviors or communication styles may differ from what we expect. A little compassion can go a long way in helping individuals with ASD—and their families—feel welcomed, respected, and understood. 

Autism Awareness Month also invites us to challenge misconceptions. Autism is not something to be “fixed.” Rather, it is a different way of experiencing the world. By listening to individuals with ASD and learning from their lived experiences, we can move beyond stereotypes and toward genuine acceptance and advocacy. 

Throughout April, I will be sharing more information, stories, and opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations around autism. My goal is to celebrate individuals with ASD, highlight the many talents they offer, and explore ways we can all contribute to a culture of tolerance, inclusion, and advocacy. 

Together, by staying informed and open‑minded, we can help build schools, workplaces, and communities where everyone is valued—not for how closely they fit into a mold, but for who they truly are. 

Last week, the Barber National Institute had the distinct honor of welcoming Erie Mayor Daria Devlin and Erie County Executive Christina Vogel. The excitement among our students was evident as they eagerly greeted these esteemed guests. Special Education Teacher Julie Moore led the classrooms in song, creating a joyful atmosphere. One of our talented students, Christina, proudly presented her artwork to the Mayor and County Executive, adding a heartfelt, personal touch to the occasion. 

These moments underscore the importance of strong relationships with elected officials, community partners, and collaborators in advancing our mission. The presence of Mayor Devlin and County Executive Vogel not only acknowledged the meaningful work taking place at the Barber National Institute and the Elizabeth Lee Black School but also highlighted our shared commitment to making a lasting difference in our region. 

When organizations like the Barber National Institute cultivate these connections, they gain dedicated advocates who support programs, champion causes, and help drive positive change. Partnerships amplify our impact, ensuring the voices and needs of those we serve are heard, understood, and addressed locally and beyond. Collaborating with leaders, community partners, and diverse array of stakeholders enables us to innovate, access new resources, and create opportunities for growth and inclusion. 

By inviting community partners into our classrooms, we offered a firsthand look at the dedication, creativity, and compassion that define our learning environment. Our guests witnessed genuine joy, unwavering staff support, and the deep sense of belonging felt by every student. These experiences reflect our team’s tireless efforts to empower individuals, celebrate achievements both big and small, and nurture growth that transforms lives. 

Community partnerships, especially those with our elected officials, are crucial to amplifying positive change. Their support strengthens our voice, expands our reach, and allows us to advocate more effectively for those we serve. As our guests interacted with students and staff, they saw firsthand the meaningful relationships that form the foundation of success at the Barber National Institute. These partnerships not only benefit us today, but also lay out the groundwork for future progress, opening doors to new resources, opportunities, and collaborative initiatives. 

The impressions made during this visit extend far beyond our school’s walls. The inspiration and hope sparked in our guests and students exemplify the power of inclusion and community. Every smile, shared moment, and act of encouragement embodies our commitment to excellence and positive change. These guiding values drive our work and connect us to broader organizational goals—building a more inclusive, supportive, and empowered community for all. 

Looking ahead, the Barber National Institute remains steadfast in its commitment to ongoing collaboration. We are grateful for the continued partnership and advocacy of our community leaders, and we invite all stakeholders and educators to join us in creating opportunities, fostering understanding, and inspiring lasting change. Together, we can achieve greater impact, ensuring every individual is valued, celebrated, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. 

Each year on March 21, communities around the world come together to recognize World Down Syndrome Day—a global day of awareness, advocacy, and celebration. The date itself is symbolic: 3/21 represents the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome. Officially observed by the United Nations since 2012, the day serves as a powerful reminder that people with Down syndrome have the right to be seen, heard, included, and valued in every part of society.  

Why World Down Syndrome Day Still Matters 

World Down Syndrome Day is as relevant today as ever. While progress has been made in education, healthcare, employment, and community inclusion, many individuals with Down syndrome still face barriers rooted in misunderstanding, outdated assumptions, and limited access to support. Globally, advocacy organizations continue to emphasize the importance of inclusive systems that respect dignity, choice, and human rights—not only for individuals with Down syndrome, but also for the families who support them. 

Each year, World Down Syndrome Day highlights a specific theme to focus global attention on issues impacting the Down syndrome community. Recent themes, including togetherness and reducing loneliness, underscore the importance of connection and belonging—reminding us that inclusion is not just about services or policies, but about relationships, understanding, and community.  

Recognizing Contributions and Changing Narratives 

People with Down syndrome make meaningful contributions to their schools, workplaces, families, and communities every day. They are students, employees, artists, athletes, advocates, neighbors, and friends. Their contributions challenge outdated stereotypes and help shift the narrative from limitation to possibility, ability, and strength.  

Advocacy organizations emphasize that when individuals with Down syndrome are supported through inclusive education, meaningful employment opportunities, and community‑based services, they are empowered to lead fulfilling lives and actively participate in society. These contributions enrich communities and demonstrate the value of embracing differences.  

Listening to Lived Experience 

One of the most powerful aspects of World Down Syndrome Day is its emphasis on self‑advocacy. Globally, individuals with Down syndrome are using their voices to influence policy, raise awareness, and educate others about what inclusion truly means. Events hosted at the United Nations provide platforms for self‑advocates to share their lived experiences directly with decision‑makers, reinforcing the message that policies affecting people with disabilities must include their voices.  

Listening to individuals with Down syndrome—and respecting their expertise in their own lives—is essential to building more inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

How We Can All Take Part 

World Down Syndrome Day invites everyone to move from awareness to action. Simple acts—like wearing mismatched socks, sharing stories, learning from individuals with Down syndrome, and supporting inclusive practices—can spark important conversations and promote understanding. These visible expressions of solidarity help amplify voices and remind the world that difference is something to be celebrated.  

A Day to Celebrate—and a Commitment to Continue 

While World Down Syndrome Day is observed once a year, its message extends far beyond March 21. It calls on all of us to continue advocating for inclusion, celebrating contributions, and creating environments where individuals with Down syndrome are respected, supported, and empowered every day. 

Today, we celebrate the talents, resilience, and contributions of people with Down syndrome—and reaffirm our commitment to building a world where everyone belongs. 

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to recognize the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities—and to reaffirm our shared commitment to inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for all. At the Barber National Institute, this month is not only about awareness, but about celebration, connection, and community.  

Every day, the Institute works alongside children, adults, and families to ensure individuals are supported to live lives filled with purpose, belonging, and possibility. Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month gives us a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect, and shine a light on the people at the heart of our mission—the individuals we serve and the families who walk beside them. 

Honoring Individuals and Their Unique Strengths 

Individuals with developmental disabilities bring creativity, perspective, resilience, and joy to our communities. At Barber National Institute, we believe that difference is not something to be fixed—it is something to be valued. Through education, employment, community participation, and creative expression, individuals are supported to grow, explore, and thrive in ways that are meaningful to them.  

Throughout the month, the Institute highlights these strengths through storytelling, community outreach, and opportunities for the public to engage more deeply with the lived experiences of people with disabilities. These moments remind us that inclusion is not just a concept—it is built through relationships, respect, and everyday actions. 

Creativity as a Bridge to Understanding 

One powerful way Barber National Institute celebrates Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is through Creative Connections, a community art exhibition featuring original works by adults and students, including those from the Elizabeth Lee Black School. Displayed in a public gallery space, the exhibition invites the community to experience creativity through a more inclusive lens—one that honors self‑expression, individuality, and voice. 

By sharing this artwork publicly, Barber National Institute creates opportunities for connection and dialogue, helping the community better understand the talents and perspectives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Creativity becomes a bridge—bringing people together across differences and fostering a deeper sense of belonging. 

Creative Connections Art Exhibit Details 

Monday, March 2-Tuesday, March 31  

Monday – Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

Location: Erie Arts & Culture Gallery, 419 State Street, Second Floor, Erie, PA  

Free and open to the public! 

Creative Connections: Teaching Artists with Disabilities  

As part of the Creative Connections learning sessions, you can join an artist panel discussion on working with adults and children with disabilities.  

This free session will be held on Wednesday, March 11 from 6-7 p.m. at the Erie Art Museum, 20 East 5^th Street, Erie, PA  

Register for the event using this online form.  

Supporting Families and Strengthening Communities 

Behind every individual is a network of support, and families play a vital role in the journey. Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is also a time to recognize and celebrate the families, caregivers, and professionals who advocate, encourage, and stand alongside individuals at every step of the way.  

Barber National Institute is committed to being a trusted partner for families—providing guidance, education, and support across every stage of life. By strengthening families, we strengthen communities and ensure individuals are surrounded by care, understanding, and opportunity. 

Moving from Awareness to Action 

While March brings special focus, Barber National Institute’s commitment to inclusion extends far beyond one month. Awareness leads to understanding and understanding leads to action—action that builds more inclusive schools, workplaces, and communities. 

As we celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we invite you to join us in recognizing what is possible when individuals are supported, differences are embraced, and everyone belongs. Together, we can continue building a community where all people are seen, valued, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. 

Want to join us in promoting a more inclusive world? Here are some steps you can take today! 

• Educate yourself – knowledge is the foundation of strong advocacy  

• Use your voice – share personal stories and real-life examples 

• Engage with legislators – contact state, local, and national legislators to support policies that protect and enhance the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities 

• Promote accessibility – advocate the accessible spaces, transportation, technology, housing, and access to resources 

• Be an ally – listen and uplift voices of individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and caregivers  

Each year, Read Across America Week reminds us of the powerful role reading plays in shaping young minds, opening doors to imagination, and building lifelong skills. At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, this celebration goes far beyond books—it becomes a week rooted in connection, inclusion, and community. 

For our students, reading is not just an academic activity. It is a gateway to communication, independence, and confidence. Many of the children we serve learn in unique and highly individualized ways, and Read Across America Week provides meaningful opportunities to experience stories through shared moments, expressive voices, visuals, and relationship‑building. Whether a student is listening intently, engaging through assistive technology, or responding with a smile or gesture, every interaction with a book matters. 

This year’s celebration was made even more special by the participation of over 70 guest readers who volunteered their time to read with our students. These readers—representing community partners, staff, families, and friends of the Barber National Institute—brought stories to life while reinforcing an important message to our students: you are valued, supported, and surrounded by people who care. 

Why Read Across America Week Matters for Our Students 

At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, literacy is woven into a broader educational experience that supports communication, social‑emotional growth, and life skills. Read Across America Week offers a joyful and engaging way to reinforce these goals. Familiar stories and new voices help students practice listening, comprehension, and social interaction within a predictable and supportive environment. Just as importantly, the shared experience of reading together fosters trust, connection, and excitement around learning. 

For many students, these moments become memories associated with comfort, encouragement, and success—foundational elements that support growth far beyond the classroom. 

More Than a Reading Event: The Power of Friendraising 

While the week centers on literacy, it also plays a vital role in something equally important to our mission: friendraising. 

Friendraising is about creating meaningful relationships with individuals who become invested in our organization—not just as supporters, but as advocates and champions for our students. When guest readers step into our classrooms, they gain firsthand insight into the incredible abilities, determination, and joy our students bring to their learning each day. These personal connections transform awareness into understanding and interest into long‑term engagement. 

By welcoming guest readers into our school, we open the door to lasting relationships built on shared experiences. A single reading session can spark ongoing involvement, whether through volunteering, advocacy, partnership, or continued support of the Barber National Institute’s mission. 

A Community United by Stories 

Read Across America Week beautifully illustrates how stories can bring people together. For our students, the presence of new faces reading familiar books reinforces confidence and belonging. For our guest readers, the experience offers perspective, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the important work happening within our classrooms. 

Together, these shared moments strengthen our community and remind us that literacy, inclusion, and human connection are deeply intertwined. 

As we turn the final pages of this year’s celebration, we are grateful—for the stories read aloud, the smiles shared, and the friendships formed. Read Across America Week is more than a tradition at the Elizabeth Lee Black School; it is a reflection of who we are and how, together, we build a more inclusive and compassionate community—one story at a time. 

At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, engagement is more than participation—it is a deliberate, values‑driven practice that shapes culture, strengthens relationships, and builds a true sense of belonging. When engagement is intentional and sustained, it becomes the foundation upon which trust is built, alliances are formed, and collaboration and long‑term commitment naturally follow. 

Engagement begins with a connection. By fostering meaningful relationships among students, families, staff, and community partners, the school creates an environment where individuals feel seen, valued, and included. These connections are not incidental; they are purposefully cultivated through shared experiences, open communication, and opportunities for collaboration that extend beyond the classroom. When people feel they belong, they are more likely to invest their time, talents, and perspectives in ways that enrich the entire community. 

A powerful example of this is the school’s approach to community engagement. Initiatives such as Read Across America Week invite local leaders, families, volunteers, and partners into the heart of the school. These shared moments reinforce the idea that education is a collective responsibility and that learning thrives when diverse voices come together with a common purpose. Over time, these experiences transform one‑time interactions into enduring relationships—alliances rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to student success. 

Family engagement further deepens this sense of belonging. By viewing parents as true partners in their child’s educational journey, the Elizabeth Lee Black School builds trust and consistency between home and school. Parents are not only informed but actively involved in conversations, planning, and celebrations. This collaborative approach ensures that families feel respected and empowered, strengthening their long‑term commitment to the school community, and reinforcing a shared vision for student growth. 

Engagement also plays a critical role in building alliances that shape the future. Partnerships with colleges and universities, for example, extend the school’s impact beyond its immediate community. Through internships, graduate assistantships, and service‑learning opportunities, the school creates mutually beneficial relationships that support both current students and the next generation of educators and clinicians. These alliances, built over time, foster collaboration grounded in trust, shared learning, and a commitment to continuous improvement. 

Similarly, workforce‑focused engagement—such as job shadowing programs—connects the school with young people exploring future careers. These experiences not only raise awareness of the school’s mission but also plant seeds for future collaboration and recruitment. By opening its doors and sharing its work, the school builds early relationships that may evolve into long‑term professional commitments aligned with its values. 

Engagement within the organization is essential. The Elizabeth Lee Black School’s emphasis on staff recognition and appreciation reinforces a culture where employees feel valued and connected to a shared mission. Celebrating milestones, contributions, and dedication strengthens morale and fosters loyalty. When staff feel recognized and supported, collaboration flourishes, and commitment to students, colleagues, and the organization deepens. 

Ultimately, engagement is the thread that weaves together belonging, alliance‑building, collaboration, and commitment. It is through consistent, authentic engagement that relationships mature into partnerships and partnerships into lasting commitments. At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, this approach ensures that the community grows stronger over time—united by trust, purpose, and a shared dedication to creating meaningful, inclusive experiences for all. 

Erie, Pennsylvania’s educational story is inseparable from the leadership, dedication, and vision of Black educators, leaders, and pioneers who helped shape schools, uplift students, and strengthen the broader community.  

Trailblazers Who Built Opportunity 

Long before equity, diversity, and inclusion became widely used terms, Black educators in the Erie region were already doing the work—teaching, mentoring, advocating, and leading with purpose. These individuals served not only as classroom teachers, but also as changemakers who helped families and students find success through education, often in the face of significant barriers.  

Their impact extended beyond academic instruction. Black educators helped establish trusting relationships with families, modeled resilience and excellence for students, and contributed to the cultural and civic life of Erie. Their leadership laid foundations that continue to support student growth today. 

Ada Lawrence was a true trailblazer. On September 3, 1946, she made history as the first Black person hired as a full-time teacher by the Erie School District. While her groundbreaking role is widely recognized, I am especially grateful to have known Ada not only as a pioneer, but as a mentor. 

A graduate of Strong Vincent High School, Ada earned her bachelor’s degree from Cheyney State Teachers College and later completed her master’s degree at Gannon University. Over the course of 36 years, she dedicated her life to education, with a deep commitment to uplifting students, particularly those with intellectual disabilities. In 1952, her passion for inclusive education led Dr. Gertrude Barber to invite her to help launch one of the first classrooms for children who had previously been sent away to institutions—work that would shape the future of special education in Erie. Ada later continued this commitment through her service on the Board of Directors for the Barber National Institute. 

As a new teacher at Wayne School, Ada was my guiding light. She helped me understand both the responsibility and the profound reward of working in special education, offering encouragement during difficult moments and celebrating my successes as if they were her own. She extended that same care to countless families, empowering them with knowledge, resources, and confidence. Through her example, she taught me that perseverance could overcome any obstacle and that all students deserve the opportunity to thrive. 

Beyond the classroom, Ada’s impact on the Erie community was vast. She was an original incorporator of the Bayfront NAACP’s Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Center and served with the Erie Chapter of the NAACP, the Harry T. Burleigh Society, and numerous other organizations. Through education and advocacy, she worked tirelessly for civil rights and social justice. 

Ada Lawrence passed away in 2014 at the age of 93, but her legacy endures. I remain deeply grateful for the wisdom, kindness, and unwavering dedication she shared so generously—and for the lasting example she set for educators, advocates, and communities alike. 

Education as a Living Legacy 

Other important Black leaders have shaped the educational landscape, including musician and composer Harry T. Burleigh, whose work inspired many. Pfeiffer-Burleigh Elementary School, which is part of the Erie School District, was named in part to honor the legacy of Harry T. Burleigh. 

Natalyn Gibbs, Ed.D., was appointed superintendent and chief executive officer of Erie’s Public Schools and began her tenure on July 1, 2025. In a letter to families posted on the Erie Public Schools website, Dr. Gibbs writes, “We believe that every child deserves a safe, inclusive environment, access to a high-quality education, and adults who care deeply about their well-being. This is our promise. This is how we ensure that every student discovers their unique path to success. Under Dr. Gibbs’ leadership, Erie’s Public Schools are making significant progress toward ensuring the path to educational attainment is achievable for students and that doors to a brighter future are open to unlock potential and benefit the entire community through continued educational growth and opportunity. 

Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future  

As we reflect on the role Black educators have played in Erie, we are reminded that education is both an act of service and mobilizers of hope. The educators who came before—and those teaching today—have helped shape not only academic outcomes, but the character and confidence of countless students. 

By honoring their contributions, we affirm a shared responsibility to continue building schools where every student is seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. Erie’s future is stronger because of the Black educators who have helped lead the way—and whose legacy continues to guide us forward. 

Valentine’s Day is often associated with cards, candy, and romantic gestures—but at the Barber National Institute, love looks different. It shows up not just on February 14, but every day, in the quiet moments, the patient teaching, and the steadfast belief that every person belongs and has unlimited potential.  

For individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral health challenges, love is not about grand gestures. It is about consistency, dignity, understanding, and trust—values that have guided Barber’s work since its founding. 

Love Begins with Belief 

The Barber National Institute was founded in 1952 on a radical idea for its time: that children with intellectual disabilities could learn, grow, and thrive.

That belief remains at the heart of Barber’s mission today. Love begins with seeing everyone not through the lens of a diagnosis, but as a whole person with feelings, strengths, and dreams. Barber’s guiding philosophy affirms that all individuals are people of God with unique capabilities and inherent worth, deserving of respect and opportunity. 

Love Is Meeting People Where They Are 

True love is patient. For individuals with autism or behavioral health challenges, the world can be overwhelming—filled with sensory demands, social expectations, and emotional pressures that others may not notice. 

At the Barber National Institute, love means: 

• Creating structured, predictable environments 

• Teaching in ways that adapt to how a person learns 

• Supporting emotional regulation with compassion, not judgment 

• Walking alongside individuals through challenges, not rushing them through milestones 

This person‑centered approach is woven into Barber National Institute’s educational, residential, behavioral health and community‑based services for both children and adults.  

Love Grows Across a Lifetime 

One of the most meaningful expressions of love is commitment. The Barber National Institute’s services are designed to support individuals across the lifespan—from early childhood education and intervention to adult day services, employment support, residential living and behavioral health support. This continuity sends a powerful message: 
You don’t age out of care. You don’t outgrow belonging.  

Love means ensuring that as children grow into adults, they continue to have opportunities for independence, connection, and purpose—whether that’s through meaningful employment, social relationships, or a place to call home. 

Love Is Built Through Relationships 

At Barber, love is relational. It lives in the bonds formed between: 

• Students and teachers 

• Adults and direct support professionals 

• Families and care teams 

Staff are more than service providers—they are mentors, advocates, and partners in possibility. Barber recognizes that its professionals are the heart of its mission, bringing compassion, skill, and commitment into every interaction.  

These relationships create environments where individuals feel safe, heard, seen, and respected.  

A Valentine’s Day Reflection 

Valentine’s Day reminds us that love is not always loud or flashy. Sometimes it is: 

• Teaching the same skill again and again —with patience 

• Celebrating progress that others may not see 

• Listening when words are hard to find 

• Standing firm in belief when the path is uncertain 

At the Barber National Institute, love is action. It is education. It is advocacy. It is community. And it is the unwavering promise that every individual—regardless of ability—is worthy of dignity, respect, and joy. 

This Valentine’s Day, we celebrate a love that lasts all year long. 

Creativity has the power to connect us—across abilities, experiences, and perspectives. This February and March, the community is invited to experience that connection firsthand through Creative Connections, a gallery exhibition showcasing original artwork created by children and adults from Barber National Institute and the Elizabeth Lee Black School.  

The exhibition will be on display Friday, February 27 through Tuesday, March 31 at the public gallery space at Erie Arts & Culture, located at 419 State Street in downtown Erie. The exhibit will feature artwork created through artist‑in‑residency workshops in Erie and Warren, alongside student artwork from the Elizabeth Lee Black School—each piece offering a unique glimpse into the creativity, self‑expression, and individuality of the artists.  

The public is warmly invited to attend Opening Night on Friday, February 27, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., part of Erie’s citywide Gallery Night celebration. The exhibition will also be open Monday through Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., through March 31, providing multiple opportunities for the community to visit and reflect.  

Creative Connections is more than an art exhibit—it is a celebration of inclusion and a powerful reminder that creative expression is a universal language. Each piece tells a story, not defined by disability, but shaped by imagination, experience, and personal voice. By sharing this work in a public gallery space, the exhibition invites the community to see creativity through a broader, more inclusive lens. 

The gallery exhibition serves as one of several activities planned in recognition of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March, a time dedicated to raising awareness, fostering understanding, and celebrating the contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities in our communities.  

Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the exhibit—engaging with the artwork, reflecting on the rich stories behind each piece, and celebrating the power of creativity to build connection and belonging. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a longtime supporter, or a first‑time visitor, Creative Connections offers an inspiring way to kick off a month focused on awareness, inclusion, and possibility. 

Each year, National School Choice Week shines a bright spotlight on one powerful idea: every child deserves access to an education that meets their unique needs.  

At the Elizabeth Lee Black School at the Barber National Institute, School Choice Week is more than a national celebration—it is a daily reality and a deeply held commitment. 

What School Choice Week Represents 

National School Choice Week is the largest annual celebration of opportunity in education, highlighting the wide range of options available to families, including public schools, private schools, charter schools, magnet programs, and specialized education settings. At its heart, School Choice Week recognizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning. 

For students with disabilities and complex learning needs, having choices is especially important. The right educational setting can unlock confidence, independence, communication, and lifelong skills. School Choice Week reminds us that families deserve the freedom to choose schools that honor their children’s abilities, celebrate their individuality, and support their growth. 

Finding Their Place at Elizabeth Lee Black School 

The Elizabeth Lee Black School exemplifies what it means to help students “find their place.” As part of the Barber National Institute, the school provides a highly specialized, student-centered educational environment designed to meet learners where they are—and help them go further than they ever imagined possible. 

At Elizabeth Lee Black School: 

• Instruction is individualized and purposeful 

• Students are supported by skilled, compassionate educators and therapists 

• Learning extends beyond academics to include life skills, communication, and independence 

• Each student’s strengths, interests, and goals shape their educational experience 

Families who choose Elizabeth Lee Black School do so because they are seeking more than a classroom—they are seeking a community that understands their child, values inclusion, and believes in possibility. 

Why School Choice Matters 

School Choice Week highlights an essential truth: when families are empowered to choose the right school, students succeed. Choice allows families to find environments that align with their child’s learning style, medical needs, social development, and emotional well-being. 

For the Elizabeth Lee Black School, choice means creating space where students feel safe to learn, supported to grow, and proud of who they are. It means fostering independence, celebrating progress—big and small—and partnering with families every step of the way. 

Celebrating Our Students, Families, and Educators 

During School Choice Week, we celebrate: 

• Students, whose determination and resilience inspire us every day 

• Families, who advocate tirelessly for the best opportunities for their children 

• Educators and staff, whose dedication transforms classrooms into places of belonging and growth 

Their combined efforts create an environment where students don’t just attend school—they belong. 

Looking Ahead 

As we celebrate School Choice Week, we recommit ourselves to the belief that every student deserves the chance to learn in a setting where they are understood, valued, and supported. At the Elizabeth Lee Black School at the Barber National Institute, school choice is not just a policy—it is a promise. 

A promise to meet students where they are. 
A promise to help them find their place. 
And a promise to believe in what they can achieve.