May 5, 2025
(Story submitted by Samantha Gascoyne - Communications Officer)
Eskasoni School Board Celebrates Autism Acceptance Month with Heart, Creativity, and Community
This April, the Eskasoni School Board proudly celebrated Autism Acceptance Month through a series of meaningful initiatives that highlighted inclusion, understanding, and the beauty of neurodiversity across our schools.
Each morning began with autism affirmation announcements, sparking conversations that helped students and staff recognize the strengths and unique perspectives of autistic individuals. Educational resources and videos were shared with staff and community through emails and social media posts, and a book lending library to encourage learning and reflection in the classroom.
One of the most joyful events of the month was a Sensory-Friendly Easter Hop at EEMS. The activities offered a calm, inclusive celebration tailored to meet the sensory needs of all students, with sensory bins, music, movement, and fun.
The major highlight of the month was the launch of our Autism Acceptance Flag Design Contest, inviting the school community to submit a design to be flown every April. We were proud to announce Elaine Denny, Principal at ESK Immersion School, and Lauren Sylliboy, Teacher at ABMHS, as the winning artists.
Elaine’s design features Mi’kmaq hieroglyphs and the phrase “Na telei”—“Just As I Am”~ beautifully capturing the heart of Eskasoni, unconditional acceptance and belonging.
Lauren’s design powerfully honours both autism acceptance and Mi’kmaq culture. It features a rainbow infinity symbol filled with the traditional colours of the four directions, a tree representing growth and strength, children engaged in Mi’kmaq traditions, and orange shirts for truth and reconciliation. Her work is a visual celebration of identity, resilience, and community.
These two meaningful designs have been merged into one new flag ~ a powerful symbol of love, inclusion, and pride that will fly high every April in honour of Autism Acceptance Month.
