The LoGuidice Educational Center in Fredonia, a part of the Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES, celebrated World Down Syndrome Day during the week of March 19-23, with a variety of activities and observances. Everyone at LoGuidice was encouraged to wear “odd socks” — striped, colorful or mismatched — on March 21 in accordance with the WDSD’s #LotsOfSocks campaign. Karaoke, dancing, games and fun competitions rounded out the celebration of everyone’s differences and similarities. In an effort to emphasize awareness, empathy and inclusion, our Special Education and Career & Technical Education divisions set up a laptop station to help spread the word to end the R-word. Dozens of students and staff used the opportunity to sign an online pledge for a campaign organized by the Special Olympics. Pictured: Students Ashlee-Rose Smoczynski of Fredonia, Austin Jones of Silver Creek, MacKenzie Frentz of Cattaraugus-Little Valley, and teacher aide Cathy Schneider cheer at a toy-tossing station during a World Down Syndrome Day celebration at the LoGuidice Educational Center in Fredonia.

Health Careers and Auto Tech students from the Career & Technical Education division pause to pledge to end the R-word.

Student Josh McLaughlin of Silver Creek and teacher Jack Dugan enjoy the games and music. Everyone was urged to sport “odd socks” to observe World Down Syndrome Day.