FTMS 8th Graders Participate in DE's Disability History & Awareness Month Poster Contest

Eighth-grade students at Fred Thomas Middle School are participating in the statewide poster contest sponsored by the Governor's Advisory Council for Exceptional Citizens (GACEC) for Disability History & Awareness Month. This year’s contest theme, “We’re All in This Together,” invites youth across the state to use their artistic talents to highlight the experiences, challenges, and contributions of individuals with disabilities.

The poster contest was launched with Fred Thomas 8^th graders on Friday, October 24, by Mrs. Nichole Shupard, art teacher at Fred Thomas Middle School. The project began with students exploring the significance of inclusion, accessibility, and the value of diverse abilities. They discussed various public figures and artists with a range of disabilities, including Stephen Hawking, Frida Kahlo, and Yayoi Kusama. Students identified different ideas that could evolve into a creative poster design that also reflect the contest’s goals of raising awareness and promoting respect and understanding for the disability community.

“It’s important for our students to not only learn about disability history but also think about how each of us can contribute to a more inclusive world,” said Nichole Shupard, art teacher at Fred Thomas Middle School. “The poster contest will give them a tangible way to express empathy, creativity, and voice.”

Entries from the school will be submitted to the GACEC for judging alongside other middle school submissions across Delaware. Winners will be selected in each of the five divisions (elementary, middle school, high school, adapted/assisted art and Computer Aided Art) and winners will be notified by December 8. All winners will then be honored at a Cookie Reception on February 13, 2026.