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| Today in “Time of Our Lives”, we will be sharing the inspiring story of Lynda Wecker, a teacher who is making a difference. Lynda works as Head of Inclusion at Helensvale State School, where she actively strives to ensure all students receive equal opportunities to flourish, regardless of their individual needs. Lynda has further been involved with Down Syndrome Queensland for over a year now, attending national conferences and researching information for upskilling school staff. She strongly believes in the benefits of Down Syndrome Queensland for the community, saying the most important value we bring is “support and learning for everyone”. Last year, Lynda was lucky enough to work with Mason, a student with Down syndrome who was in his first year of school. While Helensvale State School had not previously had a student with Down syndrome, Lynda reports that “all staff and students embraced the learning needs of Mason to ensure he belongs”. When asked about something surprising she discovered about teaching a student with Down syndrome, Lynda is quick to say that “his laugh makes everyone’s day, no matter what”. Many staff have also commented on the ‘richness’ that Mason brings to the school, adding immense value not only to the classroom but to the whole school community. In 2022, Lynda is excited for the year ahead. She is looking forward to “the value we can add to Mason’s life,” and she says, “seeing his friendships develop and the pure acceptance is rewarding”. When asked about her goals for Mason’s future, Lynda says, “I hope that Mason will continue to be as happy, flexible and resilient during the rest of his schooling life.” We would like to thank Lynda for all the work she has done with Down Syndrome Queensland and for the community. We are looking forward to watching her progress with Mason in 2022. Down Syndrome Queensland offer a range of educational services and resources to ensure your journey through school has the same inclusiveness and success as Mason and Lynda. For more information on how Down Syndrome Queensland can support your school contact one of our Education Consultants, (07) 3356 6655, email education@downsyndromeqld.org.au or visit our website https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/qld/ #dsqeducation #downsyndrome #inclusion |