When One Student’s Story Becomes Ours
Supporting every learner also means standing beside families during life’s hardest moments. On World Sanfilippo Awareness Day, Maryland Elementary staff wore purple to celebrate Oliver, a joyful fourth grader living with Sanfilippo Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that primarily affects children. His parents and sister joined the celebration, making the day especially meaningful. Each year on Nov. 16, families and schools around the world raise awareness and honor the strength of those affected by Sanfilippo. At Maryland, the day was a reminder that when one student’s family faces something difficult, the community shows up.
Belonging in Action: “No Place for Hate” Across Bexley Schools
This school year, Bexley City Schools again earned the No Place for Hate designation, reflecting a districtwide commitment to building belonging, addressing bias, and fostering positive school climates. Across all buildings, students and staff led activities promoting kindness, inclusion, and connection. These efforts included World Kindness Day, Start with Hello Week, cultural celebrations, service projects, and classroom-based learning focused on empathy and understanding. Together, these efforts mark a strong second year of participation and a shared commitment to ensuring every student feels seen, valued, and connected.
Equity in action means every student — regardless of need, circumstance or ability — knows they are not alone.
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease