He was singing. My little autistic brother was singing in the Meramec Elementary Choir with his fellow students. Finally we were hearing him sing the songs he had practiced routinely (usually while doing his homework).

His voice was on pitch, and though only one voice among many, you could hear him. He contributed to the overall sound of the choir.

In this issue of the Globe we profiled how several Clayton students spend their time in diverse ways in order to contribute – similar to my little brother. You can see this variety of contributions from Wydown student Evan Robinson, who entertains crowds outside of Busch stadium by playing the piano before Cardinals games, to CHS student Megan McCormick who spent time doing service in the Philippines.

In many ways these students also seem to prove the idea that even people that appear seemingly “regular” all offer differing experiences and talents that bring something special to the “bubble” of Clayton.

Robinson and McCormick have not been labeled as different by the society that they live in; however, one could say that their diverse life experiences have changed them and caused them to be different.

Also in this issue, we explore the Collaborative School – a place that can help different students succeed in another environment.

In many ways the idea of a completely separate school for “different” students seems to contradict the idea of appreciating and incorporating others despite their apparent uniqueness. However, I do realize that many people do need a different experience and learning environment than CHS. But the District has to tread carefully as these different learning environments should only be used when it is absolutely needed – as we sometimes underestimate people like my brother who can contribute if given the chance to succeed.

As a District and society I hope that this New Year reminds us that people are as “different” as we force them to be.

Sadly, many people quickly label my brother as “autistic” before they label him as an excellent ping-pong player and friend. To me, my little brother is my best friend and and an insane ping-pong player.

What is he to you?