Let's Include Others!

In a lively school in Missouri, Joan and Sammy were the best of friends. They did everything together: lunch, projects, and even joined the same clubs. However, they faced a big problem. Some classmates didn't understand Sammy's cochlear implants and often excluded him. This made Sammy feel very left out and Joan determined to change things.

Joan decided it was time to talk to their classmates and explain why Sammy's implants were nothing to be afraid of. But when she tried, some kids giggled and walked away. Others ignored her completely. Joan felt frustrated, as if her words weren't reaching them. Sammy shrugged, trying to act like it didn't bother him.

Despite Joan's efforts, the misunderstandings continued. In class, when Sammy couldn't hear the teacher clearly, some kids whispered and made fun of him. Joan knew that this was not right and felt a bit helpless. She realized that solving this problem was going to be harder than she thought.

Joan tried organizing a group activity to include everyone, explaining to Sammy that it might help them understand better. But when they played a game during recess, Sammy accidentally missed a cue, causing their team to lose. Instead of supporting him, some kids blamed him, making Sammy feel even more alone.

Feeling overwhelmed, Joan sat with Sammy under their favorite tree. - Maybe it's just too hard, Joan said sadly. Sammy nodded, - Maybe they just don't want to understand. They both sat quietly, wondering if things would ever change. It seemed like an impossible task to make others see the truth.

Just when Joan was about to give up, their teacher, Mrs. Harris, noticed their struggle. She approached them and offered some advice. - Sometimes people need a little more help to understand, she said kindly. - Maybe we can organize a show-and-tell about cochlear implants. Joan's eyes lit up with hope.

With Mrs. Harris's help, Joan and Sammy prepared a special presentation about cochlear implants. On the day of the show-and-tell, Sammy bravely stood in front of the class. - This is how I hear the world, he explained, showing his implants. Joan added, - It's like magic, helping him hear all of us.

Their classmates listened intently and asked questions. - How does it feel? one student asked. Sammy smiled, - It's amazing. I can hear things I never thought I could. Joan was relieved to see the change in their attitudes. The air was filled with understanding and curiosity, instead of giggles.

With the presentation a success, the students began to include Sammy more. They invited him to join games and group projects. - I'm so glad we did this, Joan said, beaming. Sammy nodded, - Me too. It feels great to be part of everything. Their friendship and honesty had made a difference.

From that day on, Joan and Sammy helped foster a more inclusive school environment. They learned that honesty and kindness could bridge any gap. - Thank you for believing in us, Sammy said to Joan. - Always, she replied with a smile. Together, they proved that inclusion and understanding could overcome any obstacle.