Capes help Vernon Hills students learn empathy for those with disabilities

Every student at Hawthorn Elementary South wore special capes they made to celebrate Cape-Abilities Over Disabilities Week in Vernon Hills.

The program teaches kids to embrace learning differences, organizers said.

"I think the biggest reason we did Cape-Abilities Week is to have kids step in other kids' shoes. I think it's taught the kids a lot of empathy," special education teacher Jackie Schwartz said Friday.

Schwartz and occupational therapist Brittany McEllen spearheaded the weeklong event.

Each day, students engaged in various activities and events, ranging from walking in someone else's shoes to reflections and the opportunity to play adaptive sports.

The students made their capes in art class and wore them all week in their classes.