Edcouch-Elsa ISD

Human Services & Community Health Workers Champion Acceptance and Inclusivity During Autism Acceptance Month

Edcouch, TX – April 19, 2024 – The Human Services Club at Edcouch-Elsa High School demonstrated their commitment to promoting autism acceptance, celebrating neurodiversity, and fostering inclusivity within the community during their recent Autism Awareness event held on April 19th, coinciding with Autism Acceptance Month. 

Keyla Trejo, Class of 2024 Senior and President of the Human Services Club shared Isadora Ochoa’s motivating and uplifting story. The entire Capello Gym attendees were inspired and moved. The audience of students, teachers, and school leaders were moved because Isadora Ochoa’s journey was one of resilience and self-acceptance while living with 22q Deletion Syndrome, a condition associated with various medical challenges including weak immunity, delayed development, and difficulty socializing. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including isolation and anxiety, Isadora found strength in pursuing her passions, such as modeling, and gradually building friendships with peers her age. Through her experiences, she raises awareness about 22q Deletion Syndrome and inspires others to embrace their uniqueness and share their emotions openly. 

Dr. Sandy Garza-Ochoa, Isadora’s mom also shared the importance of being accepting and understanding of students that are different by embracing diversity. 

Mirayda Cerda, Human Services Club Advisor shared, “The event aimed to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder while celebrating the uniqueness of every individual.” “With a wide range of fun activities designed to engage all of us, the event served as a platform for education, understanding, and unity,” shared Dr. Jesse Fidelio Garza, Public Relations & Parental Outreach Administrator. 

Keyla Trejo expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead such impactful initiatives, stating, “This is our last event of the year and my last event. It means so much to me because I have been able to do so much community outreach with Mrs. Cerda. It's been an unforgettable journey that I will take with me.”

The Autism Awareness event featured interactive booths offering activities including coloring, drawing, cornhole throwing, musical chairs, and face painting. Each station was accompanied by informational posters, allowing attendees to learn about different disabilities while enjoying the festivities.

Reflecting on the purpose of the event, Keyla Trejo emphasized the importance of recognizing both the differences and commonalities among individuals, stating, "Our goal was to set up different booths with activities that everyone can engage in...You see, we are all different, yet we are all the same."

The success of the Autism Awareness event underscores the dedication of Edcouch-Elsa ISD students to foster a culture of acceptance, understanding, and connectedness within their community. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, these students are paving the way for a more compassionate and inclusive society.