Katelyn Chang

My name is Katelyn Chang, and I am a student at Palisades Charter High School in Los Angeles. Outside of school, I enjoy sailing, playing the violin, and spending time with my friends and community.

One of the causes I care most about is creating more inclusive environments for students with autism and other developmental disabilities. This interest began with my cousin, who has autism. Getting to know him helped me better understand how important patience, inclusion, and a sense of belonging can be.

Since then, I have become involved in programs and advocacy focused on bringing neurodivergent and neurotypical students together, improving inclusion in schools, and learning more about accessibility through research and conferences.

I created The Friendship Formulas to bring what I have learned into one place and share it with a wider community. I hope this website can help students, families, educators, and peers learn more about special education, become more mindful of the experiences of neurodivergent students, and find practical ways to make schools more welcoming and inclusive.

More than anything, I hope this site encourages people to notice who may be left out, listen to what students need, and help create a school community where every student feels that they belong.