H.B. Whitehorne Middle School will host author and motivational speaker Jordan Toma on Wednesday, January 24. The entire student body will hear Toma speak about how he overcame adversity to be a success. Parents and students can follow Toma on social media @imjustakidwithaniep where he posts inspirational messages daily. His motto is “My struggle is my strength.”
Although he travels across the country to spread his message of hope and perseverance, Toma lives here in northern New Jersey. He went from failing out of Seton Hall Prep to graduating from Centenary University. As a student, he struggled with ADHD, anxiety, learning disabilities and a poor self-image until he had a change of heart in college. He credits his success to his mother, his positive attitude, and hard work. He encourages students to learn how to make use of their accomodations and tries to erase the stigma of special education. HBW school librarian Jen Kleinknecht coordinated Toma’s visit to coincide with Inclusive Schools Week, which is being celebrated throughout Verona schools. Inclusive Schools Week is is an annual celebration that focuses on the themes of inclusion, neurodiversity, acceptance, kindness, and belonging.
While Toma’s visit is not open to the public, Kleinknecht encourages parents to be a part of this special event by talking to their children about the assembly. Copies of Toma’s book “I’m Just a Kid with an IEP” can be purchased online. Toma’s visit was made possible by the HBW School Community Association (SCA), the Verona Foundation for Education Excellence and C.H.I.L.D., the Verona nonprofit for children having individual learning differences.
