Seventh-grader Cady Williamson speaks to Dr. Kerry Magro, autistic professional speaker, author and autism consultant, at Blennerhassett Middle School on Wednesday during the district’s Voices of Inclusion Speaker Series. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — Students in grades two through six had the opportunity to hear an inspiring presentation from nationally recognized autism advocate, author and speaker Dr. Kerry Magro on Wednesday at Blennerhassett Middle School.

Students from Martin, Madison, Emerson and Franklin Elementary schools, along with those from Blennerhassett Elementary and Middle School, got a chance to listen to Magro, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 4 and was initially nonverbal, share his personal story of perseverance and success, encouraging students to embrace differences, show empathy and include others.

His message focused on themes of autism awareness, inclusion, and self-advocacy, empowering students to celebrate what makes each person unique.

“I want to see more autism awareness and acceptance to help put an end to bullying. October is National Bullying Prevention Month, but I believe every day should be National Bullying Prevention Month,” Magro told students. “I was diagnosed with this thing called autism when I was about 4 years old, and used to be a victim of bullying, and now I get the wonderful opportunity to speak in schools like yours about the importance of being kind and realizing this: Being kind to someone with autism and a disability isn’t being a hero, it’s being a decent human being.”

The presentation was part of Wood County Schools’ Voices of Inclusion Speaker Series, a new initiative Ashlee Beatty, director of curriculum and instruction, said was designed to promote understanding, acceptance and community among students.

Dr. Kerry Magro, autistic professional speaker, author and autism consultant, speaks to students in grades two through six from six Wood County Schools on Wednesday at Blennerhassett Middle School during the district’s Voices of Inclusion Speaker Series. (Photo Provided)

“Wood County Schools was proud to host Dr. Kerry Magro as part of our Voices of Inclusion Speaker Series,” Beatty said. “His story reminds our students and staff that every individual brings unique strengths and perspectives to our schools and community. Events like this help our students understand that inclusion is more than a concept. It’s a daily practice of kindness, empathy and respect.”

She said the program was made possible through the generous support of the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation’s Community Action Grant.

She said Magro’s visit marks the first in a series of presentations aimed at highlighting the importance of inclusion and celebrating the diverse abilities and experiences that strengthen Wood County Schools.

Dr. Kerry Magro, autistic professional speaker, author and autism consultant, speaks to students in grades two through six from six Wood County Schools on Wednesday at Blennerhassett Middle School during the district’s Voices of Inclusion Speaker Series. (Photo Provided)