Autism Day participants reflect on meaningful event

By Zak Zanella ‘23, news editor; Nevaeh Grant ‘24, managing editor; Carter Maurer ‘25, staff writer

   Three of the student-participants in the annual Autism Day event at Shamokin Area Middle/Senior High School, reflected on their experiences in, and thoughts about, this worthwhile event held April 28. Their responses are below:

Nevaeh Grant, junior:  “It was a fun experience! Getting to know each of the kids and learning about them is an amazing experience. I met a girl who couldn’t hear and learned a little sign language. I gave the high school Mount Carmel kids a tour of the school and they went to the pool and sensory rooms and played in the gym with other kids. It made me tear up realizing how amazing each of the kids are. I felt wonderful seeing kids having fun. It makes me feel warm and joyful. I do feel awful for the random fire alarm that happened at the dog show. Other than that, I had the most fun I’ve had all year.”  

Zakary Zanella, senior: ‘’I very much enjoyed being a part of this experience for the fourth and final year of my high school years. It’s such a fantastic feeling to understand the fact that Shamokin Area is committed to positively impacting people that have all sorts of mental or physical disabilities. I hope that they continue to prosper and thrive with these sorts of experiences, and I hope people will continue to get a glimpse of what it’s like to be a person who has the immense potential to succeed, but has some challenges that tend to get in the way of their life.  It’s such a great feeling to know that I am not alone in this struggle and it’s inspiring for me to have the opportunity to witness and connect with so many people that have to go through with these sorts of experiences every single day.’’

Carter Maurer, sophomore: “Being able to volunteer and speak to students with Autism really warmed my heart. I learned so much from the experience and had a blast! It was nice setting up the activities and seeing students have fun.  That’s what it’s all about, bringing students together and creating a fun welcoming environment. I hope they continue to celebrate autism day and I know for sure if I get the opportunity to volunteer again, I will.”