Our Special Education Advocate, Lisa, recently worked with a family who were facing obstacles within their child’s IEP team. She received a beautifully written email from the parent, who generously allowed us to share her words with our community. Messages like this are a great reminder of why we do what we do!

Dear Lisa,

When I think about a moment of success or positive change, the most important one for me was when I felt a deep connection with you. It wasn’t just because you’ve “been there, done that”, it was because you’re also a mother, and like mine, your child is on the spectrum. That shared experience created a space where I could open up quickly and honestly. I remember being overwhelmed with hope and crying…not out of embarrassment, but out of relief and joy. For the first time, I felt seen and understood in a process that has often felt impossible to navigate alone.

Just facing the IEP system with no instructions, no experience, and so much at stake has been incredibly difficult. But that moment with you, that connection…was already a success for me.

As for positive change? You gave me confidence. Not the kind based on vague hope, but the kind rooted in knowing I’m no longer facing this alone. Your presence, your guidance, and your actions make this feel real and possible. You didn’t just give me information; you taught me how to speak, how to advocate, and how to stand my ground when it feels like me against the school.

I’ve always wanted to take this step. Deep down, I knew something wasn’t right, but I didn’t have the words or the courage to say it out loud. I was so afraid of being dismissed. Because of you, I now know that what I’ve observed and felt as a mother is valid…not a delusion.

Being Asian, even as a U.S. citizen, I’ve been conditioned to comply, to say “yes,” and not to fight. But what I’ve learned through you, I can’t unlearn. I look forward to the upcoming IEP meeting with you by my side. The hardest part has always been walking into that room alone. And now I won’t be.