The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) in partnership with Queen’s University Faculty of Education and the Re•Storying Autism Project hosted Neuro Vibes: A Night Exploring Neurodiversity in January 2024. The event brought together educators, students, administrators, community members, and researchers to explore neurodiversity and expand understandings of neuro-affirming approaches in schools. Neuro-Vibes 2025 is happening on April 3.
It was a cold January evening, but inside Duncan McArthur Hall, the atmosphere buzzed with warmth. Researchers, educators, students, parents, and advocates had gathered for Neuro-Vibes 2024, a night dedicated to celebrating neurodiversity and reimagining truly inclusive education.
Originally planned as an intimate event, it quickly became something bigger. Over 200 people showed up, along with 25 community organizations, transforming the space into a hub of conversation, advocacy, and inspiration.
A Space for Every Mind
From the moment attendees walked in, they were met with intention. Quiet sensory-friendly spaces allowed for breaks. A fidget tool-making station sparked creativity. Visual guides, door greeters, and welcoming volunteers made sure everyone felt at home.
The message was clear: This space was built for neurodivergent minds, not the other way around.
Shifting the Narrative on Neurodiversity
For too long, education has tried to “fix” neurodivergent students rather than support them. Dr. Patty Douglas of the Re•Storying Autism in Education Project and Director of the Centre for Community Engagement and Social Change , challenges this thinking. Instead of forcing students into rigid systems, she urges educators to adapt and build classrooms that celebrate diverse ways of learning.
In the centre of the action, an interactive wall captured personal reflections:
“Seeing the world differently is my superpower.”
“I wish people knew we’re all unique.”
This wasn’t just academic theory. Neurodivergent attendees were right there, including neurodivergent students, family members, educators and researchers sharing their lived experiences—both the struggles and the joys.
A Powerful Panel
One of the most powerful moments of the night came when a panel of neurodivergent students and educators took the stage. They didn’t sugarcoat their stories. They spoke about the exhaustion of masking, the barriers to diagnosis, and the frustration of being misunderstood.
But they also shared moments of hope—the teachers who took the time to listen, the friends who accepted them without question, the strength they found in embracing their differences.
Patty Gollogy, LDSB’s Superintendent of Education, put it best: "Sharing my story isn’t just about narrating the challenges I’ve faced; it’s about highlighting the distinct strengths and insights that come from thinking differently."
By the time the panel wrapped up, the room felt different—more open, more connected. This wasn’t just about talking about change. It was about making it happen.
A New Way Forward
The real magic of Neuro-Vibes wasn’t just in the conversations—it was in the actionable takeaways. People didn’t just leave inspired; they left with concrete strategies to bring neuro-affirming practices into their schools and communities :
• Listen to neurodivergent voices—they are the experts of their own experiences.
• Shift the focus from “fixing” to supporting and affirming—neurodivergent students thrive when their strengths are recognized and when they have access to appropriate and culturally safe supports.
• Design classrooms for all learners—simple changes like quiet zones, flexible seating, and visual supports can make a world of difference.
Educators left the event ready to make changes in their schools. Students felt empowered to start conversations. Parents found new allies in their fight for inclusion. As one attendee put it: "I left feeling inspired, safe, accepted, and encouraged. This is what education should feel like for every student."
One particularly exciting outcome: inspired by the night’s discussions, students formed a Neurodiversity Alliance in local high schools—a space where neurodivergent students can connect, advocate, and support one another.
Looking to the Future: What’s Next for Neuro-Vibes?
The overwhelming success of Neuro-Vibes 2024 means one thing: this is just the beginning. Plans for Neuro-Vibes 2025, to be held on April 3, are already in motion, with an even bigger emphasis on accessibility and representation.
The Ripple Effect Begins
The morning after Neuro-Vibes, an educator shared that they returned to school with a new mindset. Instead of seeing their neurodivergent students as struggling, they saw their strengths.
That’s the power of an event like this grounded in both research and community partnerships. It sparks change.
Neurodiversity isn’t a trend. It’s a reality. And if Neuro-Vibes 2024 proved anything, it’s that the future is brighter, more inclusive, and more neurodiverse.
The world is better when every mind has a place to thrive.
Be part of this exciting change and meaningful community. Register now for Neuro-vibes 2025.