WEST GROVE, PA — Children’s author Jimmy Curran brought a message of self-acceptance and perseverance to students at the Child and Career Development Center’s Engle campus Friday, drawing on his experiences with disability to encourage students to embrace their differences.
Curran read from his recent book, “Will the One-Winged Eagle,” during a Sept. 18 assembly at the West Grove school. The story carried an added connection for students because the Engle campus mascot is an eagle named Echo.
The Child and Career Development Center, operated by the Chester County Intermediate Unit, serves Chester County students with diverse learning needs. Its programs include autistic support, emotional support, life skills development and services for students with multiple disabilities.
“My main message to them is to always believe in yourself and embrace your differences,” Curran stated. “We are all unique in our own ways, and that is what makes us special.”
Curran described changing perceptions of people with disabilities as another goal of his presentations, particularly the assumption that disabilities prevent people from overcoming obstacles or pursuing their ambitions.
Principal Shannon Brown connected Curran’s presentation to the school’s emphasis on belonging and helping students recognize their abilities.
“His message strongly reflects our vision at Engle: Every Student. Known. Valued. Empowered,” Brown stated. “Belonging is at the heart of our school, and Mr. Curran’s story and book provide a powerful reminder that every individual has value and a place where they belong.”
More information about the Child and Career Development Center and its student services is available at https://engle.cciu.org/.
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