On October 24, 2015, the Adrian Dominican School of Education (ADSOE) and Phi Delta Kappa hosted a film screening of “Every Child Counts” to celebrate Disabilities Awareness Month.
The documentary captures Lyn Major’s journey to establish a school for children with exceptionalities in Abaco, The Bahamas. At the time of production, no such school existed and children with exceptionalities could not be adequately supported in their education. Because of the efforts of Major and other dedicated and caring individuals, who worked tirelessly to advocate for their children with disabilities, students’ prospects for a brighter future are now being realized because they can attend the Every Child Counts School.
The film highlights how the community came together and played a critical role in providing educational opportunities for its children with disabilities. Consequently, new opportunities are being created every day to continue to change the island’s perceptions of individuals with disabilities and to open new doors to independence and inclusive living, rather than dependency and isolation from the rest of society.
Following the screening, Major, administrator of the Every Child Counts School, and a school parent and supporter of the school’s development, Caroline Sawyer, answered questions from the audience. The event was attended by faculty, students, alumni, and community members; all proceeds from the event will go toward the support of Every Child Counts School.