My story of inclusion - 6th grader with Down Syndrome (Captions available)

Summary

Mia Pisani, a 6th-grade graduate with Down Syndrome, shares her inclusive school experience in a presentation. She emphasizes the importance of inclusion for people with disabilities, detailing her educational journey, support from family and friends, and the challenges faced by others with Down Syndrome. Mia's story showcases her achievements, such as graduating from Quest Elementary School and taking the New York State Test, and her hope to inspire others.

Takeaways

• 🎓 Mia Pisani, a student with Down Syndrome, just graduated from 6th grade at Quest Elementary School.
• 🌟 Mia's exhibition message is about the importance of inclusion for people with disabilities.
• 📅 She raised awareness on World Down Syndrome Day, March 21st, to celebrate Trisomy 21.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Mia presented to Lily's parents and student teachers about inclusion, emphasizing the community aspect.
• 🧬 Mia explained that Down Syndrome means having an extra copy of the 21st chromosome.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Mia's parents were happy to have her despite societal concerns about Down Syndrome.
• 🏥 Historically, people with Down Syndrome were often separated from society, but Mia has been included.
• 👶 Mia started Physical Therapy at three years old and became a big sister when her brother Luke was born.
• 💪 Mia's team included not just teachers but also her family, who supported her learning journey.
• 📚 Mia has been included in all activities with her peers and siblings since kindergarten.
• 🏆 Mia was the first student with Down Syndrome to graduate from QUEST in a regular classroom.
• 📈 With help, Mia meets her reading and math goals and is good at taking notes.
• 🚀 Mia is moving on to middle school with a plan in place, supported by her past and future teams.

Q & A

What is Mia Pisani's message about inclusion for people with disabilities?

Mia's message is that inclusion is important for people with disabilities because they can be friends and learn in the same community.

What did Mia do to raise awareness on World Down Syndrome Day?

Mia raised awareness on World Down Syndrome Day by celebrating Trisomy 21, which is the scientific term for Down Syndrome.

Who is Lily and how is she related to Mia's advocacy?

Lily is a child going to Kindergarten in Hilton who also has Down Syndrome. Mia presented to Lily's parents as part of her advocacy.

What was Mia's role in presenting to student teachers about inclusion?

Mia presented to student teachers about inclusion to share her experiences and promote the importance of including children with disabilities in regular classrooms.

How does Mia describe Down Syndrome?

Mia describes Down Syndrome as having an extra copy of the 21st chromosome, also known as Trisomy 21.

What was Mia's experience with physical therapy?

Mia started physical therapy when she was three years old, and it eventually moved from her house to dance class.

How did Mia's brother Luke become involved in her physical therapy?

Luke started helping Mia with her physical therapy, and they helped each other learn.

What was the role of Mia's family in her education and support?

Mia's family, including her parents and siblings, were part of her support team, and they worked closely with therapists and teachers.

What was the significance of Mia's kindergarten experience?

Mia's kindergarten experience was significant because she was included with friends her own age and took the same bus as her neighborhood friends.

How did Mia's team help her learn and achieve her goals?

Mia's team, including speech, OT, and special ed, along with her assistant Mrs. Kintz, helped her learn and achieve her academic goals, including in math and reading.

What milestone did Mia achieve at the end of her elementary school journey?

Mia became the first student with Down Syndrome to graduate all the way through QUEST in a regular classroom.

What are Mia's plans for middle school?

Mia is heading to middle school and has already met with her QUEST team and her new middle school team to make plans for her future education.