Every March, communities around the nation commemorate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month to celebrate the inclusion and the contributions of over 7 million Americans living with intellectual and developmental disabilities. According to the CDC, Developmental Disabilities are a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. The theme for 2026 is “We’re Here: Then, Now, Always”.

This year’s theme shifts the focus from mere visibility to long-term support. While this month serves as a celebration of individual achievements, it is also a call to action. The ‘We’re Here’ campaign is made to ensure that inclusion isn’t just recognized during this month, but put into place to be a permanent standard. “The individual should never be described by their disability.  For example, a student with autism sounds more respectful than an “autistic student” or “autistic boy”.   In summary, place the person before the disability.  When referring to an individual with a disability, avoid negative language.  For example, do not use phrases such as “defect” or “afflicted with”.  Instead, consider positive phrases such as “differing abilities” or “accessible parking,” said Ms. Barbour, The department chairwoman of Special Education at Osbourn High School.

In schools and local neighborhoods, this ‘Always’ mindset is taking root through expanding inclusive classrooms and community-led programs surrounding meaningful inclusion. Educators are moving above and beyond to focus on sensory-friendly environments that allow students with all abilities to thrive alongside their neurotypical peers. “Meaningful inclusion means being part of a class, activity, or school community in a way that actually lets you learn, participate, and belong—not just be physically present.  It’s about making sure every student has access to the same learning opportunities as their peers, gets the support they need to participate fully, feels valued as a real member of the class, can contribute their strengths and ideas, and is challenged to a level that helps them grow,” said Ms. Erica Loesch, the Director of Special Education for Manassas City Public Schools. 

Inclusion within the community and in schools is a constant process of finding ways to respond to diversity and ensure everyone can participate fully in school and extracurricular activities. Our community is continuously changing to make sure no one is left behind. “I am proud of the community support I have experienced.  For example, Grace United Methodist Church offers a prom for individuals who have varying abilities.  They also offer noise-cancelling headphones and fidgets for students who may benefit from them during Church services.  Here at Osbourn, we have our Unified P.E. class that allows students who are in our structured, adapted curriculum program to participate in P.E. activities with a “buddy” from the general education curriculum. Together, all students have opportunities to travel to other high schools to participate in basketball, baseball, and kickball games.  Eagle Buddies offers monthly opportunities for students with varying abilities and students in the general education curriculum to participate in planned activities together.” Ms. Barbour added. 

Integrating diverse media into classrooms and at home is a practical way to turn the inclusive mindset into a reality. If you want to read more about inclusive practices in our state, these resources are recommended by Ms. Loesch: TAC Online Inclusive Practices for K-12 Students, Inclusive Practices in Schools Training Module, and Inclusive Practices Website.

By engaging with these technologies, students can learn that inclusion isn’t just a policy; it’s about recognizing everyone as a person, no matter how they move, speak, or learn. “Inclusion offers a variety of ways to learn to ensure many learning styles are met,” said Ms. Barbour. 

As we celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness month, we are all reminded that “We’re Here: Then, Now, Always” is not just a slogan for the month of March, but a long-term commitment on how we all live and learn together. By choosing respectful language, embracing diverse learning styles, and fostering programs like Eagle Buddies, Osbourn High School and the Manassas community are turning daily inclusion into a daily reality.