Hello Wonderful Cottonwood Families,
I’m so excited to connect with you in this month’s newsletter and share a perspective from the world of Special Education. Did you know that here at Cottonwood we currently have 314 students with active Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)? These plans are created for students with disabilities who benefit from extra support, such as specialized services and accommodations tailored to their unique needs.
Behind every IEP is a dedicated team of individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by one mission: to provide your student(s) with the support they need to thrive. Each team member brings a unique perspective, and together, we create a student-centered approach to special education. Our goal is to partner with you, as families, to help your child achieve their own version of success—something they can feel proud of and take ownership of.
To inspire you, I’d like to highlight a few famous individuals who faced learning challenges yet went on to make a lasting impact on the world:
- Ludwig van Beethoven
One of history’s greatest musicians, Beethoven overcame hearing loss and challenges believed to be related to ADHD and dyslexia. Despite these obstacles, he composed legendary symphonies, piano sonatas, and even an opera. - Agatha Christie
Known as one of the best-selling authors of all time, Agatha Christie wrote 66 detective novels and numerous romance stories, even while living with dyslexia. Her works have been translated into more languages than Shakespeare’s! - Thomas Edison
Perhaps the most famous inventor in history, Edison had a curious mind and boundless energy that would likely be described today as ADHD. He held over 1,000 patents, including the light bulb, phonograph, and alkaline battery. - Albert Einstein
A brilliant mathematician and physicist, Einstein didn’t speak until age three and reportedly struggled with challenges like dyslexia, dysgraphia, and word retrieval. Yet, he developed the groundbreaking theory of relativity and won the Nobel Prize for Physics, all while advocating for justice and peace.
Now, imagine our world without the contributions of these extraordinary individuals. What they achieved despite their challenges reminds us of the incredible potential within every child.
As a Cottonwood community, let’s work together to instill confidence in our children—helping them recognize their unique gifts and the important role they are meant to play in the world. Remember, some of the greatest legends and superheroes faced the biggest challenges, and they persevered.
Here’s to raising our own legends and superheroes of all shapes and sizes!
Please check out the resource utilized in today’s piece to share with your student: 21 People Who Succeeded Despite a Learning Disability
Jackie LiVolsi-Harman, M. Ed.
Assistant Director of Special Education