Rep. Tony Hwang Loves Trumbull Sensitivity Day

Trumbull - Representative Tony Hwang (R-134) visited Middlebrook Elementary School to read and participate in their Sensitivity Day to raise awareness about learning and handicap disabilities.  Rep. Hwang joined parents, administrators and community leaders to read and interact with students.  

Sensitivity Day is designed to enable students to experience a variety of physical and learning disabilities that impact some students' everyday life. The program hopes to increase awareness and sensitivity of these differences in a safe environment. The interactive educational program is offered to all 4th Grade Trumbull students and begins in the classroom with a discussion of differences, tolerance and the importance of being open and sensitive to all people in our diverse world. The students then attend a 35-minute program with hands-on learning stations on various disabilities.

Rep. Hwang had the chance to not only read with Mrs. Freda Stanton’s 1st Grade class, but learn sign language with them as well.  "The class was engaged and excited as we read the story and learn how to communicate and express ourselves via sign language,” said Hwang. “Sensitivity Day is so important for the children to experience a greater appreciation of every child’s uniqueness and sensitivity.”

Mrs. Stanton, an educator of twenty years, said that the message she strives to get to her students every day is to respect and love one another, and to use love and kindness in everything they do. “I can’t say enough to my students, they absorb so much and are interested in learning everyday” said Stanton. “They really are great kids.”

Lisa Hughes, one of event organizers and a parent of two Middlebrook students, also spoke highly of the interactive experience. “This is such an amazing program,” said Hughes. “It wasn’t long ago that student with special needs were in separate schools, it’s great for all of the kids to interact with one another so that they can better understand all of their fellow students.  We are so fortunate to have Rep Hwang read and participate with the students.”

Middlebrook Elementary Principal Pat Frillici also couldn’t speak highly enough of not only Sensitivity Day, but her students as well. “I call this school a shining star,” said Frillici. “All the bright teachers and young minds that are here make for such an amazing learning community.” 

Rep. Hwang ended his visit by telling the students that it was important that they leave today and make sure that they use what they learned outside of the classroom. Mrs. Stanton’s class assured him that they would by saying goodbye and thanking Rep. Hwang for coming - via sign language .

Rep. Tony Hwang was recently re-elected to a 3rd term in the Connecticut General Assembly. Rep. Hwang represents the 134th District, which encompasses portions of Fairfield and Trumbull.  Rep. Hwang is the ranking leader in the Government Administration and Elections Committee and is a member of Public Safety and Security and Insurance and Real Estate committees in the 2013-2014 legislative sessions.  Rep. Hwang is a member of the CT Innovation Life Sciences Business/Government Group and a founding member of the General Assembly Bipartisan Bioscience Caucus.