abaxley

My name is April and I am from Georgia. My husband and I have four children. Our youngest son is diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and generalized anxiety and has received speech services and accommodations through an IEP. Of our three daughters, one was served through Babies Can't Wait for developmental delays, one had an IEP for speech, and two were diagnosed with ADHD. It has definitely been a learning process and a journey, but I've learned so much. I am currently serving as the Parent Mentor for my school system to help other parents navigate the Special Education process. I previously worked as a paraprofessional for 22 years in the classroom setting serving students with special needs. I am excited to be in this position to help other families understand the IEP process. As a parent of children with different abilities and disabilities, I understand the joys (and sometimes challenges) of parenting a child with special needs. It is from this perspective that I provide information, support, and encouragement to families and educators. I believe in public education and the importance of community support and student advocacy. I also firmly believe that when parents are actively involved in their child’s education (whether they are receiving special education services or not,) children do better in school, and in life beyond school.