WEST ORANGE, NJ - Kelly Elementary School recognized Autism Awareness Month with a special visit from the West Orange High School Adaptive Color Guard and ambassadors from the Best Buddies program.

Since 2011, the month of April has been recognized as Autism Awareness Month, to help raise awareness and educate others to understand, accept, and support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  

"To celebrate Autism Awareness Month, our Kelly school community embraced inclusivity through a special event organized by Paraprofessional Ayesha AlyAhmed and the PTA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team," began Principal David Marion.

"Our students were treated to a vibrant performance by the West Orange High School Adaptive Color Guard, showcasing the talents of diverse individuals," he continued.

Kelly also welcomed ambassadors from the West Orange High School chapter of  Best Buddies International, a program that fosters one-on-one friendships between students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), promoting inclusion and social interaction. 

"The Best Buddies program ambassadors further enriched the experience by sharing powerful messages about acceptance and kindness.  Ms. AlyAhmed then extended the learning into the classrooms, delivering impactful lessons on autism and the importance of pursuing dreams regardless of challenges," Marion concluded.

WOHS Adaptive Color Guard