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Haddon Township (N.J.) High School students learn about Tourette Syndrome

Faculty members of Haddon Township High School and student members of the school’s Psychology Club devoted time on February 2 to learn about Tourette Syndrome.

Known also as TS, Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by uncontrollable sounds and movements known as tics. Even though as many as 1 in 100 Americans show symptoms of the disorder, it’s still frequently misdiagnosed and misunderstood.

The New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders (NJCTS) Education Outreach Program offers school in-service presentations for faculty and students. For educators, the focus is on identifying and accommodating students with TS and its co-occurring disorders including ADHD, OCD, depression and anxiety. Students are given a lesson in acceptance, anti-bullying and empowerment.

NJCTS Executive Director Faith W. Rice is grateful for the invitations to present at schools throughout the state. “Awareness and training go a long way in creating understanding of Tourette Syndrome and compassion for those who are living with it,” she said.

“Even if a teacher or classmate hasn’t met a student with TS yet, chances are likely that they soon will,” added Rice. “Our presentations are taking away the stigma of this disorder, and by doing we’re making schools a safer place for kids with TS and other neurological disorders.”

NJCTS School In-Service presentations are delivered by master’s level educators with (often personal) experience assisting students with Tourette Syndrome. For more information about the Education Outreach Program, or how to arrange a presentation for your school or club, visit www.njcts.org or call 908-575-7350.

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One Comment

  1. I am so glad to hear about this! My son, who graduated last year from HT, was diagnosed with TS in 4th grade. He had the most amazing teachers, from elementary school through 12th grade. I think it was harder on me, to watch him go through his day with his different tics, then for him to go to school and deal with his TS during his school day. All of his teachers supported him every step of the way! He had a network of kids that stood beside him, that stood up for him to the kids that did not understand his TS. I am grateful for that and I am glad that the school is staying informed and up to date on TS! Thank you!

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