Masuk Free Press

Masuk High School has a new student organization this year: the Neurodiversity Acceptance Club, founded by junior Emily Clark. The club focuses on promoting understanding, inclusion, and respect for all students, whether they are neurodivergent or neurotypical.

“The club is called the Neurodiversity Acceptance Club, and I started it because there were a lot of jokes about people with disabilities including the r-slur, which I find wrong,” Clark explained. “We want to spread the word to end the use of certain words against other people and to promote inclusivity.”

Clark has been actively involved in programs like unified sports and Best Buddies Club, which give students with and without disabilities the opportunity to interact and support each other. “I’ve been involved in unified sports as a student partner and the Best Buddies club. Also, I am part of the unified cheer program, which was started last year, and it allows varsity cheer and kids with disabilities to work on stunting together.”

While Clark appreciated these programs, she wanted to create a space dedicated specifically to advocating for neurodivergent students like herself and promoting inclusion across the school. “I started the club earlier in March because I noticed that Masuk didn’t have a neurodivergence club,” she said. Currently, there are only two student members, and the club is guided by co-advisors Lauren Iverson and Megan Letko. “It was harder to find an advisor but both Mrs. Iverson and Mrs. Letko were happy to help as they have known me since freshman year.”

The club is already organizing its first fundraiser, “Buttons for Acceptance,” which will run from April 6–10. “Mrs. Iverson bought the buttons and club members are going to sell them for a dollar each. All of the money will be going to the Greater Connecticut Sensory Kits. The aim is to help first responders be better equipped when aiding those on the autism spectrum. The bags we create contain noise canceling headphones, stuffed animals, gum or chew toys, and blankets. The first responders can give these bags to those who are anxious or overwhelmed in a crisis.” Students can purchase buttons during all lunch waves, and donations are also welcome to support the cause.

Clark’s hope is that the club will foster awareness, understanding, and advocacy throughout Masuk. “We want to spread inclusivity and make a difference for people who are neurodivergent.” Through projects like the sensory kits, students at Masuk can help make a positive impact on the wider community, showing that advocacy and compassion can start right at school.