Disability History and Awareness Month

Disability History and Awareness Month takes place during October to increase awareness, respect, and acceptance for people with disabilities, and to bring a greater sense of pride to people with disabilities.

Join FWPS, in centering the voices and expanding the narratives of people with disabilities to support inclusive school communities. Did you know, one out of five people in the United States has a disability. To help commemorate Disability History and Awareness Month and the vast contributions people with disabilities have made to our schools and communities, the Washington State Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) created a video series centering student voice as a learning resource.

Watch the Office of Education Ombuds “One out of Five” video playlist.

Learn more and find additional stories and resources below this month:

• RCW 28A.230.158
• OSPI Resources
• ADL: A Brief History of the Disability Rights Movement
• WA Office of the Education Ombuds: Disability History and Pride Project

Empowering Abilities: FWPS ANEW Program Highlights Inclusion in Skilled Trades

This past summer, 14 students enrolled in the second ANEW Construction Youth Exploration program at Thomas Jefferson High School. This program, offered at Federal Way High School the first year and designed specifically for FWPS middle and high school scholars with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans who are interested in careers in the skilled trades, offers hands-on learning experiences that empower students to explore new career pathways while breaking down barriers to success.

In celebration of Disability History and Awareness Month, it’s important to recognize the critical role programs like ANEW in Federal Way Public Schools play in fostering an inclusive environment where students of all abilities can thrive. By providing students with disabilities the opportunity to explore the construction trades, the program creates spaces where scholars can develop practical skills, build confidence, and envision a future in which their abilities are celebrated, not defined by limitations.

Developed in partnership with the Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, scholars in the program participated in projects that ranged from building tables and benches to pouring cement and making cement lamp posts. These activities helped students learn essential skills such as safety practices, measuring, using hand and power tools, and construction terminology—all while nurturing critical problem-solving abilities.

“I've learned a lot. This program has given me new skills I can use at home to help my parents and loved ones. It will also help me secure better jobs in the trades, including options like flagging. As women, we can support each other and succeed in this field,” said TJHS senior Michaela Gonzales.

In addition to construction skills, scholars also gained exposure to valuable workplace skills like teamwork, job interview techniques, money management, appropriate workplace attire, self-advocacy, emotional intelligence, and career exploration.

Former TJHS student Arica Winters shared, “Socializing with my friends is important, so I brought my best friend here to gain experience together before entering the workforce. There are many demanding jobs out there, and this program prepares us for them.”

Students with prior construction and pre-apprenticeship experience also participate as Foreperson in Training (FIT), giving them a chance to develop essential leadership skills. FWHS alum Jason Shell, class of 2024, highlighted the importance of peer support in the program.

“Having peers next to them helps students become more comfortable and ensures they are on the right track,” said Jason, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the program that encourages collaboration and mentorship.

Mentoring has also taught Jason how to effectively communicate and cooperate with new students, providing them with a realistic understanding of the construction industry. While Jason plans to pursue a career in real estate by taking business and realtor courses, he is also exploring the possibility of a construction career.

The program offers scholars a workplace-like experience rather than a traditional school setting. “They have to sign in to the time sheet. Then they do a little bit of written work and some career exploration and write a project about it,” said Ms. Phillips, one of the program instructors who regularly teaches college-level classes at other institutions.

As we celebrate Disability History and Awareness Month in FWPS, this program serves as a shining example of how inclusive opportunities can open doors for students with disabilities, helping them realize their full potential in industries like construction, where diversity is essential for growth and innovation.

If you're interested in exploring more about the trades programs offered at Federal Way Public Schools, be sure to check out our course catalog for detailed information: https://www.fwps.org/academics/curriculum/course-catalog.