From Where I Sit

Headshot of Kathy Bates as a young woman
Some Things Students with Disabilities Want Their Teachers to Know
My high school adventure in the 70's was a huge challenge. It's 2024 and the school year is about to start, so I thought it would be interesting to as... Learn More
IOD blogger Kathy Bates supports the Stop Special campaign. To take the pledge, visit StopSpecial.org
What’s So Special About That?
As part of the launch of the Stop Special campaign, Kathy Bates discusses the use of the word "special" with a few people who identify as disabled. Learn More
unh students on campus
Ask Kathy: College Prep, be an Expert on Yourself
In this post, Kathy answers a question about college prep and self-advocacy. Learn More
Portrait of a kind female teacher surrounded by her elementary school students, making learning enjoyable and fun, sparking curiosity, and fostering a love for education
Ask Kathy: Classroom Atmosphere
In this post, Kathy answers a question about how classroom atmosphere can affect student engagement. Learn More
The UN flag emblem
Ask Kathy: Extending the Rights of the ADA to the Global Community
In this post, Kathy answers a question about why the U.S. still hasn't ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Learn More
little wooden stick figure cutouts of people of different colors and abilities
Ask Kathy: On the Right Path
In this post, Kathy answers a question about how a kindergarten teacher can advocate for their student. Learn More
A puzzle in the shape of a brain with different colored pieces.
Ask Kathy: Trends in Self-Diagnosis of Neurodiversity
In this post, Kathy answers a question about self-diagnosis of neurodiversity. Learn More
A snowy winter scene with a blue wheelchair in the foreground
Kathy’s Guide to an Almost Stress-Free Holiday Season
In this post, Kathy shares some tips and advice for making your holiday gatherings more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Learn More
International Persons with Disabilities Day December 3rd
December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Today, the world population is over eight billion people, and more than one billion people, or approximately 15 percent of the world's population, live with some form of disability; 80 percent live in developing countries. - United Nations
In this post, Kathy talks about two very important initiatives of the United Nations: The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)... Learn More
A man in a wheelchair at a voting booth.
Ask Kathy: Voting Rights in New Hampshire
In this post, Kathy answers a question about accessible voting in New Hampshire. Learn More