College fairs can be incredibly helpful in students’ college search process. These events present an opportunity to meet with representatives from different institutions and make significant connections. Unfortunately, traditional college fairs usually fail to accommodate those with individualized education plans (IEPs), anxiety disorders, or sensory sensitivities. Westport Day School (WDS) has acknowledged this and made it its mission to create a space where students can explore their futures without barriers.
The school conducts an annual Special Education College Fair, which has been successful in reinforcing the need for more inclusive postsecondary planning events. Its second annual college fair was, in fact, held on March 20, welcoming students with learning differences, their families, and educators and providing them access to over 30 colleges and vocational programs that offer specialized support.
This initiative is part of WDS’ broader mission of providing a values-driven, high-quality education in a supportive setting that drives academic success and personal growth. This Connecticut State Department of Education-approved special education program, founded in 2013 by Dawn Matera Ed.D., is known for serving students in grades six through twelve who experience anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, and academic avoidance. It’s established as a therapeutic and academic sanctuary for students struggling in conventional school environments.
WDS’ Special Education College Fair was born out of necessity. Existing college and career fairs can be overwhelming and unsuitable for neurodiverse students. Samantha Cook, the Executive Director of WDS, experienced this firsthand when she attended a large college fair. She noticed that students with disabilities felt out of place, struggling to find relevant resources in an environment that wasn’t designed for them.
Some parents were brought to tears upon realizing that WDS’ booth was one of the few spaces where their children’s needs were acknowledged. “This moment gave us the idea to create a dedicated event where students with learning differences could explore postsecondary options in a setting built specifically for them to succeed,” Dr. Matera remarks.
A challenge in college and career planning for neurodiverse students is that many don’t even realize the breadth of opportunities available to them. Usually, they’re funneled into limited career paths instead of being encouraged to explore various academic and professional possibilities. WDS opposes this restrictive mindset. It argues that students with learning differences shouldn’t be told their futures are predetermined.
It’s also worth noting that many industries are facing labor shortages. Yet, a vast pool of talented individuals is overlooked because society fails to accommodate them. WDS believes that increasing awareness and promoting inclusion could bridge this gap and create life-changing opportunities for students while helping to meet workforce demands.
“Our biggest motivator is the fact that our students are beyond capable,” says Dr. Matera. “It may take some of them longer to get there, but why should that matter? Neurodiverse students shouldn’t feel like they’re falling behind just because their path looks different. They deserve the same encouragement and opportunities as their peers, and that’s exactly what this event is about.”
Interestingly, besides addressing academic and career limitations, the event also prioritizes sensory-friendly accommodations to ensure attendees feel comfortable and engaged. WDS deliberately conducted the second Special Education College Fair in its school grounds, as its facilities were designed with student well-being in mind.
WDS features specialized lighting, an advanced air filtration system, and an abundance of plants, creating a calming atmosphere. The layout of the fair was also carefully structured, with a clear map allowing students to navigate at their pace and engage only with the schools and programs that interested them.
Dr. Matera shares an inspiring success story of a former WDS student who faced significant challenges, including being on the autism spectrum and managing medical complexities. In her early days, she struggled to truly access all that WDS had to offer. However, she persisted, worked hard, and thrived. Today, she’s a sophomore in college who supports other students, welcoming those who feel lost and helping them explore their new environment. At this year’s fair, she proudly represented her college, showing current WDS students that their futures are filled with possibilities.
“Just because you don’t fit into society’s pre-made boxes doesn’t mean there isn’t a place for you,” Dr. Matera states. “There’s more out there than you might think. The world needs your skills, your voice, and your perspective.”
The Special Education College Fair has undeniably made an impact. Schools and organizations across the country would benefit from following WDS’ example of creating events and initiatives that prioritize inclusivity. Even small adjustments, like reducing sensory triggers, providing clear navigation, and ensuring students facing challenges feel celebrated, can make a world of difference.
“We’re already planning for next year because we know how vital this event is,” says Dr. Matera. “We want to expand it each year and make it more inclusive to reach more students who deserve access to postsecondary opportunities. These students have so much potential, and when we support them, it benefits not just them but society as a whole. They can contribute to their communities meaningfully, and we need to recognize that.”