Darnestown Elementary School’s 14th annual “Celebrating Differences” program will feature Mattie Stepanek, a young poet with muscular dystrophy who has published several volumes of his work.

Stepanek, who has appeared frequently on national television programs such as Oprah and Larry King Live to discuss his poetry and the challenges of his life, will be at Darnestown Elementary School on Tuesday, April 23, from 1:15 p.m. until 2:15 p.m. Other activities and speakers are scheduled at the school on Wednesday, April 24.

“Celebrating Differences” brings guest speakers who are disabled to talk to students about how they lead productive, happy lives. The program, designed to teach young people to appreciate and understand differences, was originally developed by second grade teacher Carol Hill. Hill recently was chosen as an Outstanding Educator by the MCCPTA Special Needs Executive Committee for her efforts on behalf of students with special needs.

Contact Principal Lawrence Chep at 301-840-7160.