Schuylerville Elementary School marked Autism Awareness Month with a week of activities focused on inclusion, understanding, and celebrating neurodiversity.
To begin the week, elementary students gathered on the playground for a Blowing Bubbles for Autism event. What started as a local initiative has grown into a global movement, with tens of thousands of participants each April. The bubbles symbolize connection through a simple, joyful activity that all individuals can share, reinforcing a sense of unity and belonging.
“Many of our students know that ‘everyone is different,’ so we are really focused on how to be supportive friends and classmates to those with neurodiversities,” said third grade teacher Grace Rathbun.
At the start of the Blowing Bubbles event, third grade teacher Mary Gell spoke with students about the importance of meeting people where they are. She also introduced her 22-year-old son, who has autism and is living a healthy, fulfilling life, offering students a meaningful perspective on acceptance, growth, and possibility.
Throughout the week, students and staff also participated in themed spirit days, including a school-wide “Blue Out,” Neurodiversity Day, and Sensory-Friendly Day, each paired with daily challenges that encouraged students to take simple, intentional actions.
“From including others at recess, to reflecting on their own unique qualities, to starting conversations about personal passions, these challenges helped reinforce empathy, self-awareness, and a culture of inclusion,” said Elementary School Principal Stacy Marzullo. “The week served as a powerful reminder that small actions can make a big difference.”