A Letter to Students with Disabilities
Hey y’all!
It’s that time again. School is starting, and everyone here at Able SC wants to say something important to every student with a disability out there: You belong.
Yes – YOU. If you use a wheelchair, receive special education services, get extra time on tests, have a support person, use a screen reader, or just do things in your own way, you still belong. Your disability is not something to hide. It’s part of who you are, and that’s a good thing.
We’ve been in your shoes. We were once students with disabilities just like you. We faced the challenges, the questions, the feelings of being left out or misunderstood, and we survived. More than that, we thrived. That’s why we’re here: to support you, to cheer you on, and to remind you that you’re never alone.
School can be hard. Not just the classwork, but the way people act. You might feel left out, like you don’t fit in, or like people don’t understand what you need. That can hurt. But please don’t try to hide. Speak up if you can. Tell someone what you need. Ask questions. And remember, if the school isn’t working for you, it’s the system that needs to change, not you. Your disability is never the problem.
It’s okay to ask for help. That’s not being difficult, that’s being brave. Being brave also means standing up for yourself. You don’t have to be like everyone else. You just have to be you.
And here’s something really cool: You are not alone. Millions and millions of disabled students have gone through school before you. They helped make things better, more accessible, more fair, and more inclusive. They spoke up, showed up, and made a difference. You’re part of that story now.
Here’s our challenge:
- Students with disabilities – Be proud of who you are. Know your rights. Speak up when something isn’t working. You are strong just as you are.
- Non-disabled students – Be a true friend and ally. Include others, ask questions respectfully, and stand up against ableism and bullying when you see it. It is never okay to make fun of someone with a disability or anyone different from you.
- Teachers – Listen. Make space. Include all students in real, meaningful ways. Don’t just follow the IEP, follow the student. They can lead. They need you to encourage them. Here is a great tool you can use: Equity is belonging: Equity in schools for students with disabilities
- Parents and caregivers – Believe your child. Support them. Teach them to speak up and be proud. And work with schools to make sure they’re not just safe, but valued.
We all have a role to play in making schools more inclusive. Let’s make this year one where every student knows: you matter, you belong, and you’re not alone.
Make this school year the best one yet, the one you’re proud to talk about your disability, the one where you feel like you belong because you don’t have to hide any part of yourself.
We are all proud of you, here at Able SC.
And hey, if you ever feel alone or just need someone to talk to, please connect with our Equip youth program at [email protected]. We got you. We’ve been there. We can even share a few secrets to help you with this year.
Lead on,
The Able SC Team