SE Valley Times

Kyrene del Pueblo Middle School has initiated a significant campaign aimed at enhancing autism awareness and fostering acceptance among students. This initiative is bolstered by a $6,000 grant from the Organization for Autism Research, focusing on peer-led instruction to better educate students about autism.

Eighth-grade student mentors at the school, known as WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) leaders, received specialized training from special education teacher Nick Indoma and WEB sponsor Tiffany Cajthaml. Indoma, who procured the grant, guided the mentors in preparing their presentations.

"Throughout my career, I’ve wanted all students—not just those in special education—to understand autism and other disabilities," Indoma stated. "Knowledge leads to awareness, and awareness leads to acceptance."

The WEB leaders spent several weeks honing their presentation skills, using curated slideshows and materials. They visited leadership classrooms to share their knowledge over eight weeks, resulting in active engagement from students, especially those in the sixth grade. According to Indoma, this effort facilitated open conversations and empathy in classrooms.

"I enjoyed learning more about autism and having the opportunity to teach other students at Pueblo," eighth-grade WEB leader Brandon Stawiecki shared. "I think it is important for everyone to recognize that we have a lot in common, and we should celebrate our differences. Everyone has their own strengths."

The campaign culminated with students and staff celebrating Autism Awareness Day on April 2, pledging inclusivity by signing a banner that will be displayed prominently on campus.

Additionally, on April 11, selected students were invited to a luncheon with Brandon Riggs, an advocate from My Special World, at Nello's in Ahwatukee. Riggs, who founded My Special World to promote inclusivity through dance and physical activities, shared his insights on neurodiversity with the students.

Kyrene del Pueblo aims to establish itself as a model in autism awareness, aspiring to extend the program throughout the Kyrene School District. "We’re planting seeds now," Indoma said. "Our goal is for students to carry this awareness with them, building a more inclusive community across all of Kyrene."