Hi, I’m Liz. 

Before I became a parent I was and elementary special education teacher.  I loved it until I didn’t. Growing up I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. What I didn’t realize was what I really loved about teaching was helping parents have “A HA” moments about their own children. 

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Unfortunately finding the time in a school day for teaching students, connecting with parents and collaborating with families can feel non-existent. The teacher burn out is real. 

 

Fast forward to 2013 when I gave birth to my youngest children, twins that would reshape my entire outlook on teaching and learning. With three kids under 2 for the first year, I was a real-life meme of “You have your hands full.” 

 

It wasn’t until my son was 5 and I was sitting in an IEP team meeting that I realized what I really wanted to be doing. I will forever remember how overwhelmed I felt sitting there as his teachers explained all the ways he would struggle and all of their concerns. Even though I was prepare for the meeting, I didn’t realize how my emotions would impact my ability to participate in the meeting. 

 

It was like a light bulb went on. I had spent years learning to be a teacher and navigating the special education process as a teacher. But that could NEVER prepare me for the other side of the table as a parent. 

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I know first hand how it feels to be a parent. I know the worries and guilt that can creep in. I know how it feels when milestones are achieved. I have learned to appreciate all of the little celebrations that make being a parent of a child with a disability special. 

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As an advocate I strive to provide parents with education and resources, but most importantly, a relationship based on mutual experiences. The special education process can be overwhelming. It also doesn’t have to be. 

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You can be a confident and active participant in your child’s education. 

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And I’m here to help.