Being a part of the lacrosse and field hockey teams at CVU has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. The atmosphere is always fun, and the kindness of my teammates truly makes me feel like I belong to a supportive community. I got involved with the CVU field hockey team thanks to my friend Adowyn, who played for Essex. As an incoming freshman, I was eager to participate in a fall sport. Adowyn shared her positive experience and encouraged me to reach out to Coach Tucker, whom she spoke highly of. Coach Tucker Pearson is an exceptional coach and person. She is always understanding and supportive, especially when I can't make it to games or practices. Her kindness has made it easier for me to navigate being a new member of the team. When I joined the team last year, I didn't know many people, which made me feel a bit anxious. However, I quickly formed a strong bond with a senior named Maddy McDade. She was incredibly … [Read more...]

Vermont features a diverse range of programs offering adaptive skiing across various resorts. These remarkable non-profit organizations are committed to enabling individuals with disabilities to experience the thrill of skiing on our stunning mountains. Supported by dedicated volunteers, these programs provide everyone the chance to enjoy the joy of skiing. While individual adaptive lessons are excellent for learning and making new friends, group lessons add an extra layer of enjoyment to the skiing experience. For over seven years, we have proudly partnered with Cochran’s to offer ski lessons for students facing various challenges. Families often gather at the base of the tow rope, forming a community as they connect with one another while their children participate in individual lessons. Cochran’s provides group lessons throughout the ski season, including special programs during vacation weeks. They warmly welcome students of … [Read more...]

Have you heard about The Sunflower Program? Check out the #inclusive program Burlington Airport is offering. Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone, with a “non-visible” condition genuinely needs support. Some people question whether you have a disability because you don’t look ‘like you have a disability". It is a simple tool for you to share that you have a hidden disability voluntarily. Simply by wearing the Sunflower, you’re just letting everyone know that you might need extra help, understanding, or just more time. Check it out here … [Read more...]

Echo Video I went to the Echo Sensory Friendly hour on Sunday, June 30th.  When I got there I was greeted by a table where you sign in. They had backpacks with headphones and sensory friendly fidget toys. It was free to go which I thought was pretty cool. When I got in I went to the new exhibit which is the Mo Williams exhibit. I got to do a lot of cool things like drawing. I also got to go to meet the pigeon which was the best part. The museum has a lot of cool things like animals. and I like that it was less crowded.   … [Read more...]

Inclusion is a concept that holds different meaning for different people.  For Kayla, it means being part of a community where she feels accepted, included, and happy.  Kayla has discovered the power of inclusion through her participation in SASA special Hockey, being a member of the CVU Field Hockey team, participating in Girls 4 Hockey, and through the CVU Unified class.  These opportunities provide her with a sense of belonging and acceptance, as she has the chance to interact with her peers and be part of a team.  Additionally, her involvement with the UVM Women's hockey team further contributes to her feeling included, as she attends games and cheers on her favorite players. Kayla's journey towards belonging took a turn when she made a connection with Courtney Barrett, the coach of the South Burlington Girls Hockey team. Courtney welcomed Kayla with open arms, and Kayla became an avid supporter of the team. Attending their games … [Read more...]