Week 5: EDLD 5326 Action Research Plan Update

AR Project Summary (at least 250 words): Currently this action research plan has given me the opportunity to act in the role of administrator and implement change initiatives. My site supervisor, Mr. Hurst, is very open to all of my action research steps and is giving me full support in my efforts. Also, he is providing input to help guide me in the action research plan process….. “Increasing Disabilities Awareness”. He really believes the program is valuable for all students. He stated, “I’m a firm believer that all students regardless of “abilities” or “disabilities” make up the student body of Woodcreek Middle School”. The peer buddy program is building self-esteem. The name of the peer buddy program is C.A.R.E. (Creating An Atmosphere of Respect and Equality) Buddies. We meet on Thursdays at 9:30- 10:15. Currently, we (CARE Buddies) have attended five out of school extra-curricular activities, known as Social Nights. The parents of my students with special needs are extremely excited about the opportunities and their child being included in school activities. I am certain that my initiative are making a difference in creating a school that promotes a community of belonging, acceptance, caring, and understanding for all. All students with disabilities and without disabilities are benefiting from this initiative. Peer buddy support programs will: • Increase disability awareness • Build Self Esteem • Educate students about Disabilities • Promote People First Language i.e., A student with an Intellectual Disability instead of A Mentally Retarded student. • Develop career interests through service-learning experiences with both general and special education students, • Create and develop social and life skills • Help build a caring school community by linking special education students with general education students in regular school functions • Providing an opportunity for friendships to be developed students and general education students between special education