This March, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) has deemed the theme of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month as “A World of Opportunities.” The idea behind this is to celebrate people and continue to work together to remove obstacles to create communities where everyone can experience meaningful inclusion as well as shine light on the barriers that people with disabilities can still face when connecting with the communities where they live and work. 

The Urbandale Community School District is committed to helping all students achieve at high levels while also increasing educators’ sense of fulfillment for their profession. Strategic actions of the Special Education Department include developing comprehensive literacy plans for delivering specially designed instruction and providing professional learning opportunities to special education staff based on needs of students. Urbandale High School also provides a 4+ Program for students that qualify to prepare students for living, learning, and working beyond high school. You can learn more about this program on their website.

If you are interested in learning more about ways that you can support or are interested in resources for those with developmental disabilities see the below links for local and national resources. We encourage everyone to read, watch, or listen to the many resources available. 

Resources

• Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council 
• Iowa Disability League 
• National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
• NACDD Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Resource Guide
• Iowa PBS- Picture Books

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