Alum’s Books on Down Syndrome Create More Inclusive Classrooms

On World Down Syndrome Day (March 21), Justin Heenan '15 – a Trent Education instructor - says he aims to dispel stereotypes and boost mental health in schools

A Trent University Education instructor and alumnus has published two books to help teachers and students better understand Down Syndrome and make classrooms more inclusive.

Justin Heenan ’15 (Otonabee College) is the author of ‘What is Down Syndrome? For Kids’ and ‘What is World Down Syndrome Day?’  and says he was drawn to the subject through his career as a Special Education teacher, volunteer involvement with the Greater Durham Special Olympics and time as board member with the Durham Down Syndrome Association.

“One thing I have come across in my work with this community is that many people don’t truly understand what Down Syndrome really is and they also don’t understand the wonderful contributions that individuals with Down Syndrome can and have made to our society,” says Justin, also a registered psychotherapist.

‘What is Down Syndrome? For Kids!’ gives readers a better understanding of the capabilities of people with Down Syndrome and suggestions for how to create more equitable environments. ‘What is World Down Syndrome Day? For Kids!’ is a shorter text that teaches about the importance of World Down Syndrome Day, how it helps to raise awareness and how to build inclusion.

Both books are currently available on Amazon and are available in a digital format. They are also available on Teachers Pay Teachers with printable materials as resources for the classroom.

Having come full circle as a Trent B.Ed. student to Trent faculty, Justin says he loves being back at the University to help teacher candidates in their development as effective educators, especially in areas such as Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, which boosts mental health for all.

“My time at Trent was so formative in my educational experience and my development as a teacher,” he says. “I feel as though Trent really got my career off on the right foot and provided me with such an exceptional learning experience that I carry with me in my work.