Hi!

My passion for this field is profoundly personal — having a disability myself, I navigated the special education system as a student. This firsthand experience has given me a unique perspective and unwavering commitment to advocating for children with special needs. I understand the importance of individualized support and the impact it can have on a child's academic and personal growth.

Outside of my professional life, I share my home with my beloved dog, Millie, who brings endless joy and companionship. Additionally, I am a former foster parent. Being a foster parent enriched my life and deepened my understanding of the diverse needs of children from various backgrounds.

Combining my professional expertise and personal experiences, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of the children and families I work with. I am dedicated to not only supporting students but also empowering parents to become strong advocates for their children. By working together, we can ensure that every child receives the education they deserve. I look forward to partnering with you to support your child's educational journey, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to be their most effective advocate.

Through my 8 years of working in special education, I have seen various challenges that parents face and the frustration and confusion that follows when it comes to navigating through the special education system. These challenges can include understanding complex legal and educational terminology, advocating for appropriate services and accommodations, collaborating with educators and specialists, and ensuring their child receives a quality education tailored to their needs. Additionally, parents face obstacles such as limited access to resources, long wait times for assessments and evaluations, and disparities in service provision. Effective communication, knowledge of rights, and advocacy skills are essential for parents to ensure their child receives the support and opportunities they deserve in the educational setting.

The disconnection between parents and educators in special education often stems from differences in perspectives, communication barriers, misconceptions, cultural differences, and conflicting priorities. Parents may feel marginalized or overwhelmed by the complexities of the special education system, leading to frustration and distrust in educators' ability to address their child's needs effectively. Conversely, educators may perceive parents as overly demanding or lacking understanding of classroom constraints, which can hinder collaborative decision-making and support planning.

Addressing this disconnection requires proactive efforts from both parties to foster mutual respect, open dialogue, and shared decision-making. Establishing clear channels of communication, promoting transparency, and actively involving parents in the educational process can help bridge the gap and create a more collaborative and supportive partnership between parents and educators in special education. My goal is to foster this collaboration and to provide parents with the tools they need to advocate with confidence.