ABOUT

I worked for the state of California for over 28 years advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families as the executive director of the Sequoia Area VIII Board. 

During that time I have represented thousands of families through IEP, 504, Suspension and/or Expulsion meetings. 

I grew up in the Central Valley and have worked here for three decades.  I have an acute understanding of the challenges presented to my clientele as I have a younger brother with Down’s Syndrome and grew up in a home where English was not our primary language as my mother was an immigrant.

My personal experiences have helped me relate to my clients and their families in a way I could never have without my own history.  The Central Valley is where I have made my home.  I’ve chosen to raise my daughter here and have spent many years forging professional relationships with the local community.  My personal understanding of my clients’ needs combined with the relationships I’ve forged in the community over the years have made me a uniquely qualified advocate.  I was an effective leader during my tenure at the Sequoia Area VIII Board to ensure that services were available to all members of our region.

I have spent my entire adult life in the serving the community.  Before I was hired by the State, I worked for the Central Valley Regional Center, Heartland Opportunity Center, ARC Fresno, Putney Ranch Camp, and the Special Olympics.  I’ve chosen this career because I love it and am good at it. 

I’m a strong believer in inclusion. Children do better when they are included in regular education classes with supports and services. Children learn from one another and they benefit from being with one another.  I believe that children with special needs belong in their neighborhood schools with their typical peers.  The Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) is the very heart of the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 

I left State service because my agency decided that providing Individual advocacy was no longer within its mission.   Because I have witnessed first hand families struggle with our complex educational system, I felt that I could continue to help families best by leaving the State and starting California Special Needs Advocacy. 

• Enjoying the moment with my brother