In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, Dayton Avenue and Eastport Elementary students welcomed “Little Big Sister” author Amy McCoy, who spoke about her book and autism. Ms. McCoy also discussed her second book, “Little Big Sister On the Move.”

The students are collectively reading Ms. McCoy’s books about little sister Katie who feels like a big sister to her older brother, Mikey, because he has autism. The author revealed that her son is autistic and that her younger daughter often feels the same way.

Ms. McCoy called her books “realistic fiction,” stories that didn’t actually happen but that could. She also encouraged the students to write their own stories from ideas that occur from everyday experiences.

Explaining to students her process for writing a book and having it illustrated was ancillary to her message that it’s “cool” to be kind to others that are different. She also gave advice on how to be a friend to someone with autism, including knowing their interests, not talking down to them and inviting them to participate in activities.

Date Added: 4/8/2024

The District is pleased to pilot Typetastic, a dynamic keyboarding program that engages students in grades K-6 with games while teaching crucial skills, such as mastering the home row keys (ASDF and JKL). Technology specialist Meredith Kramer said she has seen firsthand how Typetastic makes learning to type efficient, fun and tailored to each student's needs.
“It's not just about typing,” Ms. Kramer said. “It's about equipping our students with essential digital literacy skills for their future success one keystroke at a time.”

Date Added: 3/20/2024