Fostering Inclusion: Join the Movement for Cerebral Palsy Awareness in LA Schools
Inclusive Sol is proud to announce that the resolution to recognize World Cerebral Palsy Day was passed by the LAUSD Board of Education on September 11, 2024.
This transformative resolution, initiated by Inclusive Sol in partnership with the office of Scott Schmerelson (Board District 3), introduces concrete measures to enhance inclusivity, awareness, and support for students with cerebral palsy and other disabilities throughout the district.
This resolution reaffirms LAUSD’s commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, creating a future where children with disabilities can thrive.
Key Highlights of the Resolution:
- Official Recognition: LAUSD will officially recognize World Cerebral Palsy Day, promoting acceptance and inclusion for students with CP throughout the district.
- Awareness Campaigns: The district will initiate awareness campaigns, offering resources to families and schools, with at least one annual event to support students with disabilities.
- Inclusive Education Practices: LAUSD staff are encouraged to integrate adaptive learning practices and ensure compliance with laws like ADA, IDEA, and Section 504.
- Recess and Lunchtime Inclusion: By March 2025, schools will develop inclusive recess and lunch programs supported by staff training.
- Training Programs: Teachers, staff, and students will undergo training on how to support students with CP, with a focus on inclusive teaching, communication, and assistive technology.
- Ability Awareness: Schools will engage in ability awareness activities around World Cerebral Palsy Day and incorporate them into classroom lesson plans.
LA County's First-Ever Cerebral Palsy Webinar Sets Attendance Record and Advances Support for Families
On August 14, 2024, the LA County Commission on Disabilities, in collaboration with the LA County Aging & Disabilities Department, hosted its inaugural webinar on cerebral palsy—marking a significant step forward in supporting individuals with cerebral palsy and their families. This event was the department’s most-attended webinar to date.
Why It Matters:
Earlier this year, the LA Board of Supervisors unanimously passed the first-ever motion dedicated to cerebral palsy, initiated by Inclusive Sol. This motion is a commitment to lasting change, with the webinar serving as the first action step to raise awareness and advocate for ongoing government support.
Since 2022, Inclusive Sol and the LA Department of Aging & Disabilities have worked together to assist families navigating cerebral palsy. This webinar was not just an event but a celebration of community and collaboration, pushing us toward a future where support is accessible to all.
The Importance of This Work:
- LA sees over 295 babies born with cerebral palsy annually, yet resources remain scarce. Inclusive Sol aims to fill this gap by offering free resources, support groups, and essential connections for families.
- The historic motion passed by the LA Board of Supervisors is just the beginning. Continued efforts like this webinar are paving the way for more significant changes.