HOLLISTON SELECT BOARD ISSUES PROCLAMATION TO RECOGNIZE MONTH OF MAY AS APRAXIA AWARENESS MONTH

In Support of Holliston Public School Student and Specialist That Led To Early Diagnosis 

HOLLISTON, Mass. May 31, 2024 – The Town of Holliston’s Select Board signed a proclamation  to recognize the month of May as Apraxia Awareness Month. Apraxia of Speech is a neurological  condition that results in the complete or partial loss of the ability to perform complex muscular  movements and is among the most misunderstood of speech disorders. It does not affect intellect,  and the proclamation brings awareness to those struggling with Apraxia, and to help alleviate the  stigma of the condition. 

The Select Board is pleased to support the Holliston Public Schools in honoring a student  diagnosed with Apraxia, and a pro-active Speech and Language Pathologist, who played a critical  role in a student’s life by identifying these very rare symptoms and urged the family to seek  treatment. Holliston Public School student Ryan Klimzecko, was chosen as an Ambassador by the  City of Newton for his incredible resilience and growth over the past several years in Holliston, as  he worked through challenges of Apraxia, to successfully use his voice today to make a difference  for others. Now, as he continues through middle school here at RAMS, he is becoming an advocate  for those who may be challenged to advocate and communicate for themselves. 

Ryan’s journey, and those of so many students, are greatly impacted by our teachers, special  educators, specialists, and paraprofessionals. Focusing on communication during transitions,  whether it be with educators, service providers or moving from grade to grade, made the difference  for Ryan. He could recall with each Speech and Language Pathologist what he had learned as he  improved articulation and mastering language skills.

As we recognize Apraxia of Speech Awareness Month, we want to also recognize Holliston’s  team of Speech and Language Pathologists who have truly made a difference in the lives of so many  of our students. For more information, visit Apraxia-kids.org.