Every April, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) recognizes World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month (WAAM) as a chance to celebrate the many diverse talents of our students. We are focused on moving past simple awareness and fostering true acceptance and inclusion. By celebrating the unique ways our neurodivergent students think and learn, we are working to create a District where every child feels a deep sense of belonging and purpose.
The Power of Routine: How a Snack Program Built Independence for GB
At the OCDSB, we believe that daily routines are powerful tools that build lifelong independence and success for our students. Just look at GB, a student at Agincourt Road Public School. Since Grade 2, GB has achieved a remarkable increase in self-reliance by taking on a leadership role in the school's snack program.
By expertly organizing snack containers and navigating the school hallways with his white trolley, GB has transformed a simple chore into an amazing learning experience.
"Watching him build those skills and now seeing him accomplish these tasks independently is an incredible thing to witness," shares his teacher, Wendy Carter.
GB's proudest responsibility is operating the school elevator. With his own key and a flash of green light, he runs the lift himself, announcing, "snack delivery!" with great pride. This job has completely changed his perspective on school, showing that confidence gained outside the classroom leads directly to success in the classroom.
Katelin Burrows, another educator at Agincourt Road, notes the lasting impact: "He takes more ownership of his learning now. He takes immense responsibility in being on time for his job and that same accountability shows up in his classroom work."
Across our school communities, staff are focused on recognizing that autism is not always visible. Our culture of acceptance is created daily by staff who make space for students like GB to step up and take on meaningful leadership roles.
Expert Support for Parents: Highlights from the OCDSB Speaker Series
We know that building an inclusive environment takes more than good intentions it requires specialized knowledge. That's why the OCDSB invited Dr. Christie Welch, a researcher and assistant professor at the University of Toronto, to speak at a recent session in our Speaker Series.
Over 300 parents and caregivers attended the webinar, which offered practical, affirming insights on how to support children through challenging experiences like "BIMS" (Burnout, Inertia, Meltdown, and Shutdown). Dr. Welch shared effective support strategies that she developed alongside autistic youth, ensuring the advice came directly from lived experience. This vital session provided families with practical tools to understand and support their children's unique needs, reinforcing that a child feeling understood is the key to their success.
The Conversation Continues
While April is a time for recognition, acceptance is something we practice all year long by making space for diverse ways of thinking, moving, and being.
Missed the Webinar? If you were unable to join Dr. Welch's session, the recording is available now on the OCDSB Speaker Series page.
Find More Support: Additional helpful resources for families, students, and staff can be found on our autism awareness webpage.
Through celebrating the achievements of students like GB and making sure our families have access to expert guidance, the OCDSB is committed to building a community where every student is ready to learn, be accepted, and thrive.
