As October comes to an end, it is imperative to reflect upon this month dedicated to promoting acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. The primary purpose of this month is to raise awareness, with the ultimate goal of destigmatizing the genetic disorder.

According to the National Institute of Health, approximately one in every 691 babies per year in the United States are born with Down syndrome, making it the most common chromosomal condition in the nation. As a result, those born with Down syndrome can have a variety of developmental delays or physical abnormalities that lead to medical complications ranging from mild to extreme severity.

This school does a fantastic job at fully integrating these individuals, along with other intellectually disabled students. As a Coach for Unified Track and Bocce Ball, varsity level sports at CHS that provide athletic opportunities for those with and without intellectual disabilities, I have experienced firsthand the unique spirit of inclusion that CHS fosters.

At CHS, we offer fully integrated classrooms and a plethora of student learning resources. We encourage a student body and administration that promotes diversity, rather than shuns it. I commend CHS for providing dignity, acceptance and opportunity for those with intellectual disabilities to reach their potential. As a result, I have watched students with special needs flourish and reach heights they never thought were possible.

Unfortunately, CHS’s culture of inclusion and acceptance is not the national norm. According to research conducted by Paul Sterzing, an assistant professor at the School of Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley, 57 percent of students with intellectual disabilities are subject to bullying and are two to three times more likely affected by bullying than an individual without intellectual disabilities in the United States.

With such a persistent stigma surrounding those with intellectual disabilities, CHS should view October as a reminder to take the lessons on inclusion CHS diligently instills within their students and implement them into their future endeavors. Ultimately, my hope is through this month of awareness and inclusion, the power of compassion prevails over intolerance.

The views in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of the HiLite staff. Reach Hannah Glazier at [email protected].