TILTONSVILLE — Last week, preschoolers through fifth-graders attending Buckeye South Elementary School observed Autism Awareness Week. The entire staff and school officials participated as well, hosting several different activities for students to take part in throughout the week.

Jerrika Gilbert, a second-grade teacher at the school, organized the event. She explained students and staff members took part in themed days in order to spread awareness and raise money for autism.

“We have many students in our school with autism, so we feel very passionate about this,” Gilbert announced. “We believe it is important to celebrate these students and spread awareness to all of our students and community.”

“Oftentimes, individuals with autism can be misunderstood,” she continued. “By spreading awareness, it allows us to open up the conversation and educate people. Education results in acceptance, empathy and prompts understanding.”

The week featured “Magnificent Mind Monday,” where children wore a fun hat to celebrate how our minds work differently.

“Neurodiversity Tuesday” celebrated the beauty in the diverse spectrum by students wearing tie-dye or bright colors, according to Gilbert.

“Sensory-Friendly Wednesday,” allowed students to wear their pajamas throughout the day. “Superhero Day” took place on Thursday, with students dressing as their favorite superhero. “Light it Up Blue” was featured on Friday, with staff and students wearing the color blue or an autism awareness T-shirt to show their support.

Students paid $1 every day they wanted to participate in that day’s theme. A pizza party was awarded to the class that raised the most money during the week. The proceeds raised will be used to help purchase sensory items for the school, Gilbert stated.

She stressed the purpose of the entire week was to help spread awareness about autism to not just the school’s students, but the community as a whole.

“The students love participating,” Gilbert continued. “They really enjoy wearing clothing and items they do not typically get to wear at school, like pajamas, hats or superhero attire.”

“They enjoy the competition and the excitement of a chance to earn a pizza party, too,” she concluded. “It teaches students we are all unique and special. We may share differences with people, but we have many things in common, such as interests, hobbies and likes.”

Gilbert stated school officials encourage the students to always be kind to everyone.