Meet the “All About Me” Templates!
A new school year means new teachers, new therapists, new paraprofessionals, bus staff, lunch/recess staff…basically, a whole lot of people getting to know your child.
These one-page, customizable templates are an easy way to help.
Each template gives school staff a quick snapshot of your child, including who they are, what they love, how they communicate, what works best for them, and the best ways to support and connect with them.
You can:
✨ Customize the template with your child's information, photos, interests, strengths, communication style, and support needs
✨ Share it with ALL staff who may interact with your child, not just their classroom teacher
✨ Update it as your child grows and their needs change
✨ Use it as a starting point for conversations with new staff
✨ Keep a copy on hand for new teachers, substitutes, therapists, or anyone else joining the team
And for classmates? We’ve got you covered there, too! A kid-friendly Question and Answer info handout can help classmates understand differences, communication, inclusion, and, most importantly, that having Down syndrome is just one part of who their classmate is. We also included a Get To Know Me handout for classmates, so that building friendships from the start is a little bit easier.
Grab the Canva templates, make them your own, and send them out before the school year gets too crazy!
About Me Blue About Me Smile About Me Pink Get To Know Me About Ds
Navigating the school years can bring many questions for families. From understanding an IEP to preparing for a school meeting, finding the right supports, or helping a child feel included and understood in the classroom, DSAP is here to help.
As DSAP’s IEP Coordinator, Mara Bell is here to be a resource, a listening ear, and an advocate for families as they navigate their child’s educational journey.
Mara works alongside families to help them prepare for IEP meetings, understand educational supports and services, and communicate effectively with their child’s school team. When needed, she can participate in school meetings and help families advocate for an educational experience that recognizes their child’s strengths, supports their individual needs, and encourages meaningful inclusion.
One of Mara’s roles is leading Peer Presentations, where she works with classrooms to promote understanding of Down syndrome, inclusion, and friendship. These presentations give students an opportunity to learn that everyone has unique strengths and value—and that each of us has a role in creating a classroom where everyone belongs.
Most importantly, Mara wants families to know that they do not have to navigate the IEP process alone. Whether you are preparing for your child’s first IEP meeting, looking for ways to strengthen an existing plan, or simply have a question about your child’s educational experience, Mara is here to help.
Her goal is simple: to partner with families, support students, and help create educational experiences where children with Down syndrome can learn, grow, participate, and belong.
Have a question about your child’s IEP or educational supports?
Connect with Mara at mbell@dsapgh.org or 412-997-2297 or fill out the the form below.
Mara Bell Office Hours
Tuesday–Thursday | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Mara works part-time, and her schedule may vary as she supports families and attends school meetings. Please allow up to 48 hours for a response. If Mara is attending a meeting or is outside of office hours, she will respond as soon as she is able.
Thank you for your understanding and flexibility!
We Want To Meet Your Family!
We offer a variety of programs to meet your needs. To learn more about each of our program offerings, check out our program offerings page.
