Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

Educators from the Diocese of Tucson elementary schools recently attended a toolkit training session organized by the Matthew 19:14 Project (TMP) to aid students with disabilities. The training, made possible by a generous donation from the Santa Catalina Knights of Columbus Council 12345, equipped educators with resources and materials to support the needs of children with various disabilities.

Crystal Brooks, a volunteer board member for TMP, guided over 30 educators and administrators through the contents of the toolkits, which included items such as noise-canceling headphones, flexible seating options, weighted lap blankets, and fidget tools. Principal Roxanne Teran of Sacred Heart Catholic School expressed her satisfaction with the toolkit, stating, "This toolkit has surpassed my expectations."

Tracy Keating, a school counselor consultant for the diocese, highlighted the versatility of the tools, noting, "These tools have overlap and can help and support so many students at our schools." Similarly, interventionist Jennifer Menke from Immaculate Heart School expressed her eagerness to implement the materials to support student success.

Attendees not only received training on how to utilize the resources but also learned how to share this knowledge with their colleagues. Educators from St. Charles Apache Mission School, for example, planned to introduce the toolkit at an upcoming staff meeting to benefit their students immediately.

Sheri Dahl, the superintendent of the Diocese of Tucson Catholic schools, commended the TMP board members for their expertise and practical experience, expressing gratitude for the impact of the training session. Dahl stated, "The level of expertise, passion, and practical experience you shared with us was very impactful and I have no doubt will spur further conversation, collaboration, and motivation as we move into our initiative next year focusing on inclusive practices in our schools."

TMP is thankful for the opportunity to provide these essential resources to the Diocese of Tucson schools and hopes for continued support from donors to empower Catholic education. Interested individuals can visit the Matthew 19:14 Project website and social media platforms for more information and to contribute to this cause.