Article for a local school in a magazine

 

 

Sunrise School, nestled in the heart of our community, is a place where every day begins with hope, learning, and the promise of brighter futures. It's a haven for learners with special educational needs, specifically those with severe intellectual disabilities (SID). Through an unwavering commitment to its mission and the dedication of its staff, Sunrise School is transforming the lives of these remarkable individuals.

 

 

For learners like Paballo Kekae, Sunrise School is a place where learning becomes an adventure. Paballo speaks fondly of the morning rings, a beloved tradition at the school. But it's not just about rituals; it's about building skills, friendships, and a sense of belonging. Paballo enjoys playing hide and seek with a dear friend, Zezethu, during breaks and having heart-to-heart conversations on a bench. This is a place where kindness and friendships flourish.

 

Paballo wants us to know more about who they are: a kind-hearted individual with a love for the colour blue, a passion for watching television, and a genuine joy in playing soccer with friends at home. The nurturing environment at Sunrise School has allowed Paballo to thrive, learning, and growing day by day.

 

 

For educators like Madam Prashanthi, the journey to Sunrise School is deeply personal. Her passion for working with learners who have special educational needs was ignited during a childhood visit to a care centre. Despite initial fears, that experience set her on a path to give back meaningfully. She volunteered at Sunrise School while pursuing her Bachelor’s of Education, and today she's a pillar of support for learners with SID.

 

Madam Prashanthi's teaching methods are a blend of practicality and engagement. Her Grade 1 classroom is filled with activities that cater to individual needs. From teaching functional life skills like eating etiquette to incorporating fun activities like pyjama days and educational field trips, she ensures learning is both educational and enjoyable.

 

Sunrise School's mission revolves around nurturing self-reliance and self-sufficiency through prevocational skills. The school caters to learners with various conditions, including:

 

1.     Down Syndrome: A genetic disorder causing developmental delays and intellectual disabilities.

2.     Foetal Alcohol Syndrome: A result of maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy, leading to developmental and cognitive issues.

3.     Epilepsy: A neurological condition characterized by seizures and cognitive challenges.

4.     Cerebral Palsy: A group of disorders affecting movement and coordination, often accompanied by intellectual disabilities.

5.     ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, impacting focus and impulse control.

6.     Behavioural Disorders: Conditions affecting behaviour, often requiring specialized support.

Sunrise School's differentiated curriculum ensures that no learner's educational needs go unmet. Visual aids, auditory stimulation, and both gross and fine motor support are provided to accommodate individual requirements, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

 

The school's teaching methods promote active participation, focusing on breaking down tasks, minimizing distractions, using a variety of resources, and creating a learner-cantered environment. Sunrise School's success stories include students who've turned their skills into sustainable business ventures, showing the profound impact of tailored education.

 

 

While Sunrise School continues to be a beacon of hope for SID learners, it's essential to spread awareness about the challenges they face and the transformative work being done at the school. Here are some ways you can help:

 

1.     Educate: Learn more about the conditions faced by SID learners. Understand the unique needs and potential of these individuals. By being informed, you can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive community.

 

2. Interaction: Seek opportunities to interact with SID learners. Their experiences can be eye-opening and inspire a deeper understanding of their abilities and aspirations. Sometimes, a simple conversation can be a profound experience for both parties.

 

3. Sister Up: Collaboration with other schools and educational institutions can create a network of support for SID learners. By sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences, we can work together to make a positive impact.

 

4. Bond with Sunrise School: Get involved with Sunrise School. Whether it's through volunteering, participating in awareness campaigns, or offering support, your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of SID learners.

As Sunrise School strives to shine a light on the potential of SID learners and create a more inclusive community, your involvement can be the beacon that guides the way. Together, we can ensure that every learner, regardless of their challenges, finds the support and opportunities they deserve.

 

 

Sunrise School isn't just a place of learning; it's my second family. It has been a significant part of my life because my mother, an unwavering advocate for Sunrise School, has poured her heart and soul into this remarkable institution. She's made it her life's work, and it's clear that Sunrise School is her baby, something she loves with unparalleled passion. I used to visit the school often during my school days, and these visits left an indelible mark on my heart.

 

As a visitor to Sunrise School, I found myself immersed in a world where every moment was filled with meaning. I played with the kids, engaging in heart-warming games of hide and seek. We had conversations about our dreams and aspirations, creating a bond that transcended words. These children, with their resilience and boundless kindness, became my inspiration.

 

But my story of connection to Sunrise School goes beyond those heart-warming moments. Back then, my mom would occasionally come to my school with the Sunrise School bus, sometimes to pick me up and sometimes for her work. It was disheartening to witness some of my peers in my school mocking each other saying “the bus came to fetch you because you’re dumb” or they slyly mocked the leaners in the bus, labelling them as 'mentally challenged,' 'stupid,' or 'dumb.' It was painful to see such ignorance, especially when I knew the truth.

 

In those moments, I couldn't help but contrast the students at Sunrise School with the hurtful remarks made by others. The kids at Sunrise School, who faced and faces unique challenges, displays enormous hearts filled with kindness and compassion. They demonstrate the true meaning of acceptance, something we, as a society, should learn from.

 

This is why I firmly believe that education about severe intellectual disabilities (SID) is of paramount importance. It's vital that we understand what mental health and SID truly entail. Mocking, belittling, or using derogatory language towards those with disabilities is an act of immaturity. In fact, it is a reflection of our own lack of understanding. If you were a parent, and someone made disparaging remarks about your child or their disability, how would you feel? The need for education, empathy, and compassion becomes glaringly evident.

 

In my eyes, learners with any form of disability are not 'disabled' but rather 'unique.' They possess qualities and abilities that set them apart and make them extraordinary. As we shed light on Sunrise School and the learners it serves, it is my hope that we also illuminate the path to greater awareness, understanding, and acceptance. For within the hearts and minds of these remarkable individuals, we find the true essence of humanity. 

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN DONATING TO OR VOLUNTEERING AT SUNRISE SCHOOL PLEASE CONTACT: sunriselsenschool@gmail.com