We have a special needs child in our class, so I found the program especially good this year. Although my class has always been very caring about this child, your presentation gave us an opportunity to discuss the ideas of empathy versus sympathy. Thank you so much.
Elementary School Teacher
 
My students loved the challenges in the adventure book. They also cherished the Braille alphabet. A story I’d like to share that shows how wonderful your program is: We have an autistic student who had quite a loud episode while class was in session the other day. She was screaming in the hallways and banging on windows. My class started to giggle and some were annoyed since we were testing. I asked them all to think about the bookmarks they signed and their buttons and the message, “I CHOOSE TO BE KIND!” I reminded them that life can be hard living with a disability. They immediately changed their attitudes. I saw looks of anger turn to acceptance and laughter turned to an understanding silence! Thank you so much for giving me the tools, the words to use, and the experience for my students. I’m not sure how the situation would have looked a few weeks before?!? Your program is amazing!!
Elementary School Teacher
 
I believe that many students don’t have a lot of experience with disabled people. I do think that when they will come in contact with them, they will now be much more understanding and empathetic because of ATOU. I think it’s a fabulous program.