All the Way to the Top: How One Girl’s Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything

Element 5 - Awareness Raising 

Author: Annette Bay Pimentel

Illustrator: Nabi H. Ali

Purchase Link:

 https://bookshop.org/p/books/all-the-way-to-the-top-how-one-girl-s-fight-for-americans-with-disabilities-changed-everything-annette-bay-pimentel/23c9011c9f9ed930?ean=9781492688976&next=t& 

Summary 

All the Way to the Top shares Jennifer Keelan-Chaffin's story of determination and perseverance, demonstrating how positive change can start with just one person. From a young age, Jennifer realized that the world is not designed to accommodate little girls in wheelchairs — school, sidewalks, and public buildings are places where, much of the time, she cannot enter or enjoy. Determined to right things, she joins disability rights activists in demanding equal access. The story builds up to the powerful moment when Jennifer pulls herself up the steps of the U.S. Capitol during the historic Capitol Crawl, pushing Congress to finally pass the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Her story illustrates how the bravery of one child led to changes in laws and increased awareness that helped millions.

Element 5- Awareness Raising

With this book, children learn about barriers and their impact on life. All the Way to the Top teaches students about the Americans with Disabilities Act and why equal access is a civil right. Through Jennifer's journey, readers witness the challenges faced by people with disabilities and are encouraged to make inclusion a part of their daily lives. The Element 5 component builds empathy and understanding. It inspires students to take action, have conversations, advocate, and contribute to creating truly inclusive environments.

Classroom Activity 

I would use this book in a 2nd–4th-grade classroom as a read-aloud during a unit on fairness or inclusion. Following the readings, students could undertake an “Accessibility Awareness Walk” throughout the school to identify accessible features (ramps, elevators, wide hallways) and barriers (stairs, narrow doorways, heavy doors). Then they’d make posters to raise awareness, write letters to their principal, or record a brief public service announcement that implores people to care about the issue. This allows students to put into practice what they've learned and pass on their newfound knowledge to our school community. 

Guide with activities and lesson ideas for All the Way to the Top:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5e33ab3d97403e30161e7110/t/5e6497a8ad7cab40b9b9e034/1583650807755/All+the+Way+to+the+Top%3A+Educator+Guide.pdf