I work at the University and often have students in my class with accommodation needs for their learning. I have had very positive experiences working with these students and ensuring that they are able to learn in my class. This has extended into my research program as well where I have had project and coop students with accommodation needs that we have navigated. From this I have learned the value of supporting people and enabling them to perform to their potential.

Within the context of the K-12 school systems I think that there is an opportunity to highlight the benefit of inclusive practices and encourage community involvement. For the past decade or so I have participated in annual community job fares where I have presented on Engineering, Physics, and Astronomy – typically to a high school audience but sometimes younger students as well. I can see that a similar type of regular event, or perhaps working with the event organizer of the existing events, with an intentional inclusion element as one piece that could be implemented directly while longer term programs evolve.