From The Banner · Kristen Griffith · · 1m 10s
Joe Hughes becomes Bel Air Elementary's Mayor
First grader with cerebral palsy now thrives at Bel Air Elementary after staff adaptations.
In brief
First grader with cerebral palsy now thrives at Bel Air Elementary after staff adaptations. Joe Hughes, a first grader with cerebral palsy, is nicknamed the Mayor of Bel Air after school staff created inclusive routines and accommodations. Originally reported by The Banner.
Joe’s school drop-off
Joe Hughes, a first grader with cerebral palsy, used to cry at school drop-off.
“Joe’s coming.”
Teachers’ welcome song
Staff plays Backstreet Boys songs to get Joe excited for school.
“This is Joe’s song.”
Joe’s wheelchair
Joe uses a wheelchair with a Maryland license plate sticker reading 2Fast4U.
“2Fast4U”
Inclusion helper
Maria Kass helps Joe move from wheelchair to activity chair for schoolwork.
“I’m always good.”
Digital magnifier
Kass uses digital magnifier to help Joe see reading materials.
“We’ll have maintenance come out and make sure this drop-off isn’t as steep.”
School playground
School staff built ramp to playground for Joe’s wheelchair access.
“There’s not a ramp at the door? OK, we’ll make sure there’s a ramp at the door.”
Joe’s school activities
Joe plays baseball for Harford County’s Miracle League.
“At the end of the game, the coach tells us to pack up all the stuff.”
Joe’s nickname
Teachers call Joe the Mayor of Bel Air after he smiles every day.
“He comes in with a smile on his face.”
Joe’s school success
Joe thrives at Bel Air Elementary with staff support and inclusive practices.
“I’m always good, and sometimes I get some good grades.”
Here's the gist
Joe Hughes, a first grader with cerebral palsy, is nicknamed the Mayor of Bel Air after school staff created inclusive routines and accommodations.
