When Schools Fail to Embrace Children Like Percy Jackson

Why do we need to know about the importance of different learning styles for inclusive education for students?

In one of the world-famous novels, Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, the first chapter tells the story of a child who feels alienated in a rigid education system.

This child was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, which made it difficult for him to learn specific subjects related to the brain and to focus. Because of this, Percy was often misunderstood and even expelled from school. Although fictional, this story reflects the experiences of many students with special needs in schools today.

Percy is one of thousands of children with different learning styles. Many children who struggle are not necessarily less intelligent, but rather because the system is not designed to support them. Schools, which should be nurturing environments, often label children diagnosed with such conditions as troublemakers, lazy, or failures. Instead of embracing diverse learning styles, the system rewards uniformity.

Percy represents thousands of children with learning differences who struggle not because they lack intelligence, but because the system isn’t built to support them. Schools, which should be nurturing spaces, often label such children as troublemakers, lazy, or failures. Instead of embracing diverse learning styles, the system rewards uniformity.

The Problem with One-Size-Fits-All Education

Despite growing awareness, many schools still operate on outdated standards. They expect all students to learn the same way, at the same pace. Yet every child is unique. Some excel in math, others in art or emotional intelligence. When their abilities don’t fit the school mold, children often feel inadequate.

What Percy Jackson Teaches Us About Strengths and Weaknesses

Percy struggles with reading because of dyslexia, but he’s brave, intuitive, and has a strong sense of justice. In his world, these traits become his superpowers. His story reminds us that what looks like a weakness in one context can be a strength in another. It’s all about perspective and support.

Read more: The Development Strategies that are Implemented at Rumah Pintar Juanda Cendekia

Toward a More Inclusive Education System

We must rethink what education really means. It’s not just about exams and grades, it’s about recognising human potential. Teachers aren’t just educators; they are mentors who can spot a child’s strength even before the child sees it themselves. Inclusive education means creating classrooms where all learning styles are valued.

Children like Percy don’t need pity. They need empathy, support, and acceptance. The education system should be a place where every child feels they belong, no matter how different their path may look.

Percy Jackson may be a fictional character, but the emotions of exclusion, rejection, and frustration are real. It’s time we stop blaming children for not fitting the mold and start changing the mold to fit every child. Inclusive education isn’t optional. It’s essential. 

Penulis: Maya Manda
Mahasiswa English Literatur, Universitas Pamulang

Editor: Salwa Alifah Yusrina

Bahasa: Rahmat Al Kafi

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