🍁This year, our school faculty celebrated Thanksgiving with a focus on learning and growth, dedicating the day to exploring ways to create more inclusive classrooms. We had the privilege of hosting Dr. Maja Filipovska from the Faculty of Philosophy in Skopje, a renowned expert in special education and rehabilitation. Her insightful lecture introduced us to the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, sharing evidence-based strategies and methodologies to foster inclusivity and address classroom challenges. Her expertise left us both inspired and better prepared to meet the diverse needs of our students. Following the lecture, we dove into practical workshops on how to work with students with dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and adapting assessment strategies to their needs. Each workshop was guided by the principles of UDL, putting the teacher in the shoes of a neurodivergent student ensuring practical takeaways that could be applied in the classroom.

🦃The day capped off with some much-needed fun! From board games and trivia quizzes to a lively TikTok dance challenge, we strengthened our team bonds while having a great time. Together, we are ready to bring fresh strategies and a renewed sense of purpose to our classrooms, ensuring every student feels supported and valued. We ended the day with moments of joy and connection. A traditional Thanksgiving turkey with gravy took center stage at our lunch, complemented by an array of homemade dishes contributed by our faculty. From a zesty Mexican bean sauce to a classic American pie and a delectable Austrian cake, the flavors were as diverse as they were delicious.  We celebrated not just our shared purpose but the community that makes it all possible. Truly, a Thanksgiving to cherish.