Michael Jacques visits KCDSB

Michael Jacques visits KCDSB
Posted on 12/01/2022
This is the image for the news article titled Michael Jacques visits KCDSBMichael jacques answers a student's question at SMB.

From being alone at recess to capturing the attention of thousands of people across Canada, author Michael Jacques has transformed a challenging childhood into not only two books, but an inspirational story for children and adults alike.

“For me, having my challenges, I didn’t think about anything, when people asked what I wanted to be. I didn’t think about writing books or doing these things, I was just being Michael,” he said.
Kenora Catholic welcomed Michael as the guest speaker for an elementary event, secondary event, PD learning and a community event which was held in partnership with both the Kenora Association for Community Living and the Keewatin Patirica District School Board.

Growing up Michael was diagnosed with autism as well as an intellectual disability. Since then he has written two books, Can’t Read, Can’t Write, Here’s My Book and I Belong: Can I Play?. Can’t Read, Can’t Write, Here’s My Book —which is written by using an iPad’s speech-to-text function—is a down-to-earth collection of compelling life stories and discoveries that teach us how to embrace and celebrate our differences.

“It took me 5 years to write my first book. I have an older sister, she snooped through my iPad, saw my notes and read it by herself. Then she said, ‘Michael what do you want to do with this?’ and I said ‘I’d like to write a book.’ She’s a graphic designer so she helped me design my book,” he said.

Since writing his book, Michael has traveled across the country to speak at school and community events about his experiences. What he hopes both adults and children take away from it is for everyone to be proud of who they are while also being kind to others.

“Be [yourself] and make sure that everyone belongs and has fun at recess, You don’t get trophies at recess so include everyone. Anything is possible and never give up,” he said.

Michael serves as the board President of Community Living Ontario, where he advocates for others with disabilities. He also works at Sobeys grocery store and competes as a Special Olympic athlete. During his presentations at both École Ste-Marguerite Bourgeoys and St. Thomas Aquinas High School, students were enthralled by his speech listening attentively and asking questions afterwards.

“I found that the kids were so well-behaved. Michael and I have been in many gyms, these guys rocked. We had some technical difficulties and they waited patiently. I was so impressed,” said Michael’s Dad, Marcel Jacques.

At the end of the PD Learning he had one thing to say to educators before he left.

“They’re doing a great job,” said Michael “It was teachers, educators, staff, custodians, secretaries, bus drivers that helped me to be where I am. It was a community and a family. As long as they did something, even just saying ‘hi’, it all meant a lot to me.”

Michael jacques speaks to students at SMB. Michael jacque smiles with a group of students.
Website by SchoolMessenger Presence. © 2024 SchoolMessenger Corporation. All rights reserved.