Teaching Outside the Lines: How ISMI Instructor Larry Biederman Turns Tourette Syndrome into Inspiration 

For Larry Biederman, a dedicated instructor at Insight School of Michigan (ISMI), his journey has been anything but conventional. Diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, Larry faced many challenges throughout his life, often being told that his condition would make it nearly impossible to be an effective teacher. However, Larry has spent his entire career proving these doubts wrong, turning his personal challenges into powerful lessons for his students. 

A Classroom that Embraces Differences 

For over 10 years, Larry has been teaching at ISMI, an environment that celebrates students who face challenges, whether it’s disabilities or struggles with traditional learning systems. Larry thrives in this environment where he and his students are encouraged to embrace what makes them unique. 

As Larry shares, “Many of our students struggled to thrive within the structured framework of a traditional school system. They’re looking to be in a world where they can fit in for whatever makes them different.” ISMI provides just that, an inclusive space where everyone can thrive without the pressure of rigid structures that may not serve them. 

Turning Challenges into Learning Opportunities 

While Larry faced significant challenges in more traditional schools, particularly with the organizational demands and rigid paperwork, ISMI has given him the flexibility to teach in a way that works for him and his students. Over time, Larry discovered that his Tourette syndrome could actually be a powerful tool in connecting with his students. What was once an obstacle became an opportunity. 

In the early days of teaching, Larry would mute his microphone to hide his tics. However, he soon realized that by being open about his condition, he could both raise awareness about Tourette syndrome and show his students that his tics didn’t affect his ability to be an effective teacher. 

Inspiring Students with Authenticity 

When Larry stopped muting his microphone, an unexpected transformation occurred. His students began to open up to him. Many shared their personal experiences, including stories about family members with Tourette’s, while others opened up about their own struggles with the disorder. Larry’s vulnerability and openness allowed his students to feel comfortable sharing their own challenges, fostering a sense of connection and community in the classroom. 

Larry believes that embracing what makes us different is essential to personal and academic success. As he says, “I want to include Tourette’s as part of my teaching. I want students to see—yes, you can do what you want to do in your life. Don’t let anything hold you back.” 

The Toolbox: Creativity, Adaptability, and Resilience 

Larry teaches his students to use what he calls “The Toolbox”—a mindset of creativity and adaptability that helps them embrace their differences. The toolbox encourages students to see the positive side of what sets them apart and how to channel that into success. Larry believes that success is rarely a straight path, especially for those who experience the world differently. 

After decades of being told he couldn’t do something because of his condition, Larry continues to prove people wrong every day. As he shares, “Every time anybody’s ever said anything to me along the lines of ‘can’t, won’t, shouldn’t—I’ve proved them wrong.” 

Larry’s story is a powerful reminder that we are all capable of achieving greatness, no matter what challenges we face. By teaching his students to embrace their uniqueness, Larry is setting them up for success, both in and out of the classroom. 

Inspired by Larry’s story? Learn more about Insight School of Michigan and how we support students in overcoming challenges to thrive academically and personally! 

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