The Port Jefferson School District welcomed Dylan Brady to the middle school on Oct. 17. Dylan, a 15-year-old student at North Shore Middle School and youth ambassador for the Long Island Tourette Association, gave a presentation on Tourette syndrome as part of the school’s One School, One Book initiative. All Port Jefferson students in grades six to eight read the fictional novel “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio. The bestselling story embodies the principles of character education and encourages everyone to embrace each other’s differences and celebrate individuality.
Dylan educated the student body about Tourette syndrome and hosted a question-and-answer session to help listeners gain a better perspective about what it’s like living with Tourette syndrome. The students asked Dylan questions about bullying and how his peers treat him. “It was an interactive learning experience to show students that although we may have a challenge, we can all achieve success and should be proud of who we are,” said Port Jefferson Middle School special education teacher Monica Consalvo, who organized the event. “Dylan shared that he is an athlete, student, twin brother and a singer in a band – all things that make him just like them.”
